Chemoembolization Research Paper

Chemoembolization is a procedure that combines chemotherapy and embolization. Medicines that stop or slow the growth of cancer cells (chemotherapy) are delivered directly to a tumor, through a blood vessel. At the same time, a type of medicine or a synthetic material (embolic agent) is put into the blood vessel to create a blockage (embolization). This cuts off blood supply to the tumor and traps the chemotherapy in place.
The goal of this procedure is to slow or stop the growth of a cancerous tumor. If the tumor continues to grow or returns after treatment, the procedure can be repeated.
Chemoembolization is most often used to treat liver cancer. The liver has two large blood vessels that supply it with blood. One blood vessel can be used to
○ A medicine to make you fall asleep (general anesthetic).
• A needle will be inserted into one of your blood vessels. Usually, this happens in one of the large blood vessels in your groin (femoral blood vessel).
• A thin tube (catheter) will be through the needle and into your blood vessel. The catheter will be guided to the area that needs to be treated.
• Dye will be injected through the IV tube and X-rays will be taken. This helps to show the exact location of the blood vessels that supply your tumor.
• Chemotherapy medicines and the embolic agent will be injected into your blood vessel.
• More X-rays will be taken to make sure the blood vessel has been blocked.
• The catheter will be removed and pressure will be applied to the area to stop any bleeding.
• A bandage (dressing) will be applied.
The procedure may vary among health care providers and hospitals.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE
• Your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood oxygen level will be monitored often until the medicines you were given have worn off.
• You may have to wear compression stockings. These stockings help to prevent blood clots and reduce swelling in your