Y-90 Radioembolization

What is Radioembolization?

Radioembolization, commonly known as Y-90 radioembolization, is a minimally invasive interventional oncology treatment for selected liver tumors. It combines embolization and radiation therapy by delivering tiny radioactive microspheres into the arteries that feed liver tumors.

How Does Y-90 Work?

Liver tumors often receive most of their blood supply from the hepatic artery. During radioembolization, an interventional radiologist places a catheter into the arterial system and delivers Yttrium-90 microspheres close to the tumor blood supply. The microspheres lodge in small vessels and deliver radiation locally to tumor tissue.

Which Conditions May Be Treated?

Y-90 radioembolization may be evaluated for selected patients with primary liver cancer, such as hepatocellular carcinoma, and selected liver metastases from other cancers. It is often considered when surgery is not possible or when local tumor control is needed as part of a wider oncology plan.

Pre-Treatment Mapping

Before treatment, patients usually undergo angiographic mapping. This helps the team evaluate liver blood vessels, reduce the risk of non-target radiation and calculate the treatment plan. Nuclear medicine imaging may also be used before the final treatment session.

Potential Advantages

• Minimally invasive procedure.
• Targeted radiation delivery to liver tumors.
• Can be considered for selected inoperable liver tumors.
• May be integrated with systemic oncology treatments.
• Usually requires multidisciplinary planning.

Possible Risks

Possible risks may include fatigue, abdominal discomfort, nausea, fever, liver function changes, ulceration from non-target delivery and rare serious complications. Careful mapping and patient selection are essential.

Required Documents

• Liver MRI or contrast CT.
• PET/CT if available.
• Pathology report.
• Liver function tests.
• Previous oncology treatment history.
• Performance status and current medications.