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Chemoembolization

Home | Treatments | Interventional Oncology | Chemoembolization

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What is Chemoembolization?

Chemoembolization is a minimally invasive palliative treatment for malignant tumors of the liver. This procedure is performed by a specially trained interventional radiologist.

This treatment delivers large, highly concentrated doses of cancer drugs directly to the liver tumors while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. This reduces most of the negative side effects of traditional intravenous chemotherapy.

Who is a Candidate for Chemoembolization?

Chemoembolization treats tumors in the liver and will have little to no effect on cancers in other areas of the body. Individuals with the following liver cancers may be able to benefit from this treatment:

  • Hepatoma
  • Metastasis from colon cancer, carcinoid, ocular melanoma, sarcomas
  • A primary tumor in another area of the body

Your physician may also recommend that you undergo testing such as blood tests to test your liver functions, a CAT scan, or an MRI of your liver before chemoembolization to rule out cirrhosis, a blockage in the bile ducts, or blockage of the portal vein.

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“Dr. Julien and his people are the most cohesive, personable and professional I’ve ever come across. From the time I walk in to when I leave I feel like they care about me. The result is good healing.”

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“I was referred to Dr. W. Julian by my PCP and very happy that I was. Dr. Julian found a clogged artery that could have been life threatening if left untreated. My experience from consult to discharge was met courtesy, warmth and professionalism which helped me through my procedure. Sean greeted me and my son who explained the whole process and what to expect. I was also looked after by Josh, Jackie and Reuben who could not have been more supportive or communicative through this adventure.”

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– Robert G.

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– Todd H.

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The Chemoembolization Treatment Process

The chemoembolization treatment is an outpatient procedure performed in the office under conscious sedation. During treatment, a vascular embolization agent is administered to partially block the blood vessels and starve the tumor of its blood supply. Tailored chemoembolization regimens are available for metastatic disease to the liver as well as liver cancer in patients who are not candidates for surgery.

A highly qualified interventional radiologist will then carefully insert and navigate a catheter from an artery in the groin or arm into the artery supplying the liver. A tiny microcatheter is then advanced to the vein supplying the tumor(s). High doses of targeted chemotherapy are delivered to the tumor, suspended either in a special oily medium or bound to beads.

Providers

William Julien, MD

Board-Certified Vascular Interventional Physician

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Mana Khatkar, PA-C

Certified Physician Assistant

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Anissa Rodriguez, NP-C

Certified Nurse Practitioner

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Chemoembolization Aftercare

Following chemoembolization, you may experience discomfort, fever, and nausea. These symptoms may last anywhere from a few hours to a few days and can be controlled with medications. Slight hair loss may also occur.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn if chemoembolization is right for you, please contact South Florida Vascular Associates by giving us a call or filling out our online form. We serve the greater Southeast Florida areas with locations in Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, and Plantation, FL.