Chemo Port Surgery: What to Expect

Chemoembolization is a minimally invasive procedure that combines chemotherapy and embolization to treat liver cancer. This innovative treatment targets cancer cells directly while cutting off their blood supply, offering a more effective way to combat the disease.

Indications of Chemoembolization

Chemoembolization is typically recommended for patients with liver cancer who are not suitable candidates for surgery or have tumors that cannot be surgically removed.

It is often used as a palliative treatment to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for those with advanced liver cancer.

• Liver cancer patients with localized tumors
• Patients with tumors that cannot be surgically removed
• Individuals who are not candidates for surgery

Steps involved in Chemoembolization Surgery

During chemoembolization, a catheter is inserted into the artery supplying blood to the liver tumor.

Chemotherapy drugs are then injected directly into the tumor, followed by the injection of embolic agents to block the blood flow to the tumor, causing it to shrink and die.

• Catheter insertion into the artery
• Injection of chemotherapy drugs into the tumor
• Injection of embolic agents to block blood flow

Who will perform Chemoembolization Surgery?

Chemoembolization is performed by an interventional radiologist, a specialized doctor who uses imaging techniques to guide procedures.

This expert will work closely with your oncologist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition and ensure the procedure is carried out safely and effectively.

Preparing for Chemoembolization Surgery

Before undergoing chemoembolization, your healthcare team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.

This may involve fasting before the surgery, stopping certain medications, and undergoing pre-operative tests to ensure you are in optimal health for the treatment.

after Chemoembolization surgery

Following chemoembolization, you may experience some discomfort, such as pain at the injection site or flu-like symptoms. Your healthcare team will provide you with pain management options and monitor your recovery closely to ensure you are healing properly.

Most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure.

Before and After Chemoembolization surgery

Before the surgery, it is essential to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your healthcare team. They will provide you with all the information you need to feel confident and prepared for the procedure.

After chemoembolization, follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and assess the effectiveness of the treatment in shrinking the tumor and controlling the cancer.

By combining chemotherapy and embolization, this minimally invasive procedure offers a targeted approach to fighting cancer while minimizing side effects.