Liver cancer can be treated with intra-arterial chemotherapy.

Liver cancer is common in Thailand, especially among those with risk factors such as hepatitis B or C virus infection, or heavy alcohol consumption or those with metabolic syndrome (Metabolic Syndrome). Currently, there are several methods for treating liver cancer, one of which is transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), a popular treatment method for patients who cannot undergo surgery.

What is Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)?

Transarterial Chemoembolization or Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) is a method of treating liver cancer by directly delivering chemotherapy to the liver through the artery supplying the cancer. This method enhances drug effectiveness and reduces potential side effects on other tissues in the body.

Liver cancer can be treated with transarterial chemotherapy

What are the steps in Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)?

The steps of treating liver cancer with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) are as follows:

A specialist inserts a catheter (Catheter) through an artery in the groin or arm and threads it to the liver artery.
Chemotherapy drugs are directly injected into the tumor area, along with an embolizing agent to block blood flow to the cancer.
This process limits cancer spread, depriving cancer cells of oxygen and preventing further growth.

How to care for yourself after Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)?

After undergoing transarterial chemoembolization for liver cancer (TACE), patients should rest and strictly follow doctors’ instructions, such as consuming nutritious food, abstaining from alcohol, and attending regular follow-up appointments as scheduled.

Liver cancer can be treated with transarterial chemotherapy

Advantages of treating liver cancer with Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)

Directly targets chemotherapy drugs, reducing the amount entering the bloodstream, thus lowering side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or hair loss.
Controls cancer growth at advanced stages.
Improves patient quality of life.

What are the side effects of Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)?

Treating liver cancer with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) may have side effects including:

Fever
Abdominal pain in the liver area
Nausea from chemotherapy
Infection in cases of inadequate post-treatment care

Liver cancer can be treated with transarterial chemotherapy

Limitations of Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is suitable for patients whose cancer hasn’t spread to other organs and whose liver functions well. It may not be suitable for patients with severe cirrhosis or extensive cancer spread.

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is an effective treatment option for patients who cannot undergo surgery, as it helps control cancer growth, reduces drug side effects, and enhances life quality. However, consulting a specialist for a suitable treatment plan is advised for each patient.

Where are the expert liver cancer treatment hospitals?

Wattanosoth Hospital, equipped with modern tools and technologies, has experienced specialists ready to provide liver cancer treatment, choose appropriate treatment methods, and have a multidisciplinary team providing close guidance to help restore good quality of life and confident living.