Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) Procedure for HCC Patients
What is TACE Procedure? Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) is a minimally invasive treatment option primarily used for patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is the most common type of liver cancer. TACE combines the delivery of chemotherapy drugs directly to the tumor with the blockage of the blood vessels supplying the tumor, resulting in targeted therapy to slow down tumor growth and improve patient outcomes.
Indications: TACE may be recommended for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in the following situations
Preparation and Procedure: Before undergoing the TACE procedure, your healthcare team will provide specific instructions to prepare you adequately. This may include fasting for a certain period before the procedure and stopping certain medications.
TACE is typically performed under local anesthesia and conscious sedation. This means you will be awake during the procedure but will receive medication to help you relax and minimize discomfort.
The interventional radiologist will make a small incision in your groin area and insert a catheter (thin tube) into an artery, usually the femoral artery. The catheter will be guided through the blood vessels to reach the hepatic artery, which supplies blood directly to the liver.
Contrast dye will be injected through the catheter to visualize the blood vessels and identify the tumor. This allows the interventional radiologist to accurately target the tumor during the procedure using real-time X-ray imaging or fluoroscopy.
Once the tumor is located, a mixture of chemotherapy drugs, usually in the form of tiny beads or particles, will be delivered directly into the tumor-feeding blood vessels. These drugs help to destroy cancer cells and prevent further growth. Additionally, embolic agents, such as tiny particles or foam, may be used to block the blood vessels, further depriving the tumor of its blood supply.
Throughout the procedure, your vital signs and well-being will be closely monitored. After the TACE procedure is completed, the catheter will be removed, and pressure will be applied to the incision site to prevent bleeding. You will then be moved to a recovery area, where you will be monitored for a period before being discharged.
Post-Procedure and Recovery
After the TACE procedure, you may experience some side effects, which can vary from person to person. These may include fatigue, nausea, pain or discomfort at the incision site, and a temporary elevation in liver enzymes. Your healthcare team will provide you with specific instructions on managing these side effects and any necessary medications.
It is important to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor the effectiveness of the TACE procedure and assess your overall condition. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience severe pain, fever, bleeding, or any other concerning symptoms.