Intra-Arterial Radiotherapy for Hepatic Cellular Carcinoma: Insights from Interventional Radiologist Dr. Rohit Madhurkar

Hepatic Cellular Carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer, remains a formidable challenge in oncology. However, advances in minimally invasive techniques have transformed treatment options, offering hope to patients who are not candidates for surgery or other systemic therapies. One of these innovative approaches is Intra-Arterial Radiotherapy (IART), and Dr. Rohit Madhurkar, a renowned interventional radiologist, shares his expertise on how this procedure can benefit patients with HCC.

What is Intra-Arterial Radiotherapy for HCC?

Intra-Arterial Radiotherapy (IART), also known as selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT), is a targeted form of treatment where radioactive particles (Yttrium-90) are delivered directly to the liver tumor via its blood supply. This precise technique minimizes the impact on surrounding healthy liver tissue and ensures the maximum therapeutic effect on the cancerous cells.

Case Discussion by Dr. Rohit Madhurkar

Dr. Rohit Madhurkar has extensive experience treating HCC patients using advanced interventional radiology techniques like IART. Below, he provides insight into the process and its benefits for managing liver cancer:

1. Patient Selection: The first step in treating HCC with IART is patient selection. According to Dr. Madhurkar, not all patients are suitable for surgery, especially if they have multiple lesions or impaired liver function. “We assess the patient’s overall health, the size and location of the tumors, and liver functionality before deciding on IART,” he explains. IART is particularly beneficial for patients who have failed other treatment options like chemotherapy or are not eligible for liver transplantation.
2. The Procedure: “IART involves the use of catheter-based technology,” Dr. Madhurkar states. A catheter is guided through the patient’s femoral artery and into the hepatic artery. Through this catheter, tiny radioactive beads are infused directly into the tumor, allowing radiation to destroy cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue. This precise targeting reduces side effects, often seen with systemic treatments.
3. Benefits of IART: One of the major advantages of IART is the ability to deliver high doses of radiation directly to the tumor site with minimal damage to normal tissue. “For HCC patients who cannot undergo surgery or have limited options, this procedure can significantly improve survival rates and quality of life,” Dr. Madhurkar emphasizes. He highlights that the minimally invasive nature of the procedure leads to quicker recovery times compared to traditional surgery.
4. Post-Procedural Care: Post-procedure monitoring is critical to ensure the effectiveness of the therapy and to manage any side effects. Dr. Madhurkar advises, “Patients are closely followed with imaging techniques such as CT or MRI to monitor the shrinkage of the tumor. Most patients tolerate the procedure well, and complications are generally rare.”

The Growing Role of IART in Liver Cancer Management

IART is an evolving therapy with growing success stories in HCC treatment. As liver cancer continues to be a significant health concern worldwide, innovative treatments like IART are providing patients with new hope. Dr. Madhurkar believes that this technique will continue to play a key role in liver cancer management, particularly for patients with advanced or inoperable disease.

Conclusion

Intra-Arterial Radiotherapy is a groundbreaking technique that offers targeted therapy for patients with hepatic cellular carcinoma. Under the expertise of professionals like Dr. Rohit Madhurkar, patients with complex liver cancers can now benefit from minimally invasive, highly effective treatments. With promising outcomes, IART is fast becoming a cornerstone in the battle against liver cancer, providing an option for those who may have previously had limited alternatives.

If you or a loved one is battling HCC, consulting with an experienced interventional radiologist like Dr. Rohit Madhurkar could open doors to advanced and potentially life-saving treatment options.