Transarterial Yttrium-90 Radioembolization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Perfused by the Cystic Artery: Multi-institutional Feasibility Study

Safety of Radioembolization via the Cystic Artery in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Parasitized Arterial Supply

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of radioembolization through the cystic artery supplying hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) adjacent to the gallbladder.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective, single-center study included 24 patients who underwent radioembolization via the cystic artery between March 2017 and October 2022. The median tumor size was 8.3 cm (range, 3.4-20.4 cm). Twenty-two (92%) patients had Child-Pugh Class A disease, and 2 (8%) patients had Class B cirrhosis. Technical issues, adverse events, and tumor response were analyzed.

RESULTS

Infusion of radioactive microspheres was performed from the main cystic artery (n = 6), the deep cystic artery (n = 9), and small feeders from the cystic artery (n = 9). The cystic artery supplied the primary index tumor in 21 patients. The median radiation activity delivered via the cystic artery was 0.19 GBq (range, 0.02-0.43 GBq). The median total radiation activity administered was 4.1 GBq (range, 0.9-10.8 GBq). There was no case of symptomatic cholecystitis requiring invasive intervention. One patient experienced abdominal pain during injection of radioactive microspheres via the cystic artery. Eleven (46%) patients received pain medication during or within 2 days of the procedure. Twelve (50%) patients had gallbladder wall thickening on a 1-month follow-up computed tomography scan. Based on follow-up imaging, 23 (96%) patients showed an objective response (complete or partial response) of the tumor supplied by the cystic artery.

CONCLUSION

Radioembolization via the cystic artery may be safe in patients with HCC partially supplied by the cystic artery.

Recognizing and Managing Adverse Events in Y-90 Radioembolization

Transarterial radioembolization using yttrium-90 (Y-90) microspheres is an important therapy in the management of unresectable primary liver tumors or hepatic metastases. While radioembolization is generally well-tolerated, it is not free from adverse events, and familiarity with the prevention and treatment of radioembolization-specific complications is an important component of patient care. This article aims to review radioembolization-specific toxicities stratified by hepatic, extrahepatic, and systemic effects, with a focus on preventing and mitigating radioembolization-induced morbidity.