What is Y-90 Radioembolization?
Y-90 Radioembolization is a minimally invasive procedure to treat liver cancer. It is a minimally invasive treatment using a combination of radiation therapy and embolization to block or prevent blood flow to the cancerous cells.
Radioembolization involves placing a radioactive material directly inside the body, unlike radiation therapy in which high-energy x-ray beams are directed at the tumor site from outside the body to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
During a Y-90 radioembolization procedure, tiny glass or resin beads called microspheres filled with the radioactive isotope yttrium (known as Y-90) are placed into the blood vessels feeding the tumor to block the supply of blood to the cancer cells. Since the radiation is focused only on the tumor, higher and more effective radiation doses are used compared to standard radiation therapy. The procedure has fewer side effects. Moreover, no surgical incision is required, only a small nick in the skin is needed.
How is Y-90 Radioembolization Performed?
Depending on each situation, your radiologist will perform the procedure in an outpatient basis or you may require admission following the procedure. The procedure is generally performed under the effect of local anesthesia. A very small skin incision is made at the site. Your radiologist will insert a catheter (a thin, long tube) through the skin and a guidewire into an artery. To determine the exact location of the blood vessels feeding the tumor, images of your upper abdominal arteries will be taken. Your radiologist will then insert microspheres filled with Y-90 into these blood vessels to deliver a high dose of radiation to the cancer cells. Over the following two weeks, this radiation dose will decrease. The tiny opening in the skin is then covered with a dressing.
To prevent infection, you may be given antibiotics, and, if required, IV analgesics or medication to prevent nausea.
What are the Risks and Complications of Y-90 Radioembolization?
As with any procedure, Y-90 Radioembolization involves certain risks and complications, which include:
- Infection
- An allergic reaction if contrast material is injected
- Risk related with placing the catheter such as infection, bleeding at the puncture site and damage to the blood vessel
- Risk of stomach or duodenum ulcer if microspheres are lodged in the wrong place
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