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Bland Liver Embolization

For the treatment of liver cancer

Bland liver embolization is a treatment for primary and metastatic liver tumors, as well as benign liver hemangiomas. It is a minimally invasive procedure that embolizes or “blocks” the flow of blood to the tumor, causing it to shrink. Its main benefit is that it can reduce tumor size and growth without damaging healthy liver tissue.

This treatment may be used for patients who are not eligible for liver resection surgery. It can also be used as a “bridge” treatment for a patient needing a liver transplant. While not a cure, bland liver embolization can help improve the quality of life for patients with liver tumors.

Bland Liver Embolization

Bland liver embolization is performed by an interventional radiologist who uses imaging to precisely guide the treatment. During the procedure, a very thin catheter is inserted into an artery in the arm or leg, and then advanced through the blood vessels to the hepatic artery. An embolizing agent, such as polyvinyl alcohol, is injected into the arteries supplying blood to the tumor. The embolizing agent blocks the blood vessel, depriving the tumor of blood and nutrients. This shrinks the size of the tumor, and because healthy liver tissue is spared, it helps to preserve the liver’s overall function, as well as reduces the pain and discomfort of the tumor.

The procedure typically lasts less than an hour and you can return home shortly after your procedure. Short-term effects such as fever, nausea, vomiting and fatigue are possible after the treatment. Bland liver embolization can be performed in combination with other treatments to better control liver tumors.

Isn’t cutting off blood to the liver dangerous?

The liver is unique because it receives its blood supply through two major blood vessels: The portal supplies 75% of the blood to the liver (along with nutrients from the digestive tract and spleen), and the hepatic artery supplies 25%. Tumors that develop in the liver receive their blood from the hepatic artery, which means that the artery can be effectively embolized without depriving the liver of its essential blood supply.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors, please visit our contact page or call (720) 516-0637.