125I seeds implantation using dual-guided technique for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma associated with portal vein tumor thrombus / 介入放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of endovascular implantation of 125I seeds under the dual-guidance of ultrasound and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) associated with portal vein tumor thrombus. Methods A total of 30 patients with primary HCC complicated by portal vein tumor thrombus underwent implantation of 125I seeds via portal vein. Guided by ultrasound, percutaneous transhepatic puncturing of portal vein was performed first, then, catheter was inserted, which was followed by transcatheter 125I seeds implantation into the affected portal vein under DSA guidance. The technical success rate, postoperative complications, routine blood tests, liver function, the suppression of portal vein tumor thrombus and survival time were analyzed. Results Successful implantation of 125I seeds was achieved in all patients, no serious procedure-related complications occurred. All patients were followed up for 3-36 months, the portal vein tumor thrombus showed a significant shrinkage in all patients. The median survival time was about seven months. Conclusion For the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma associated with portal vein tumor thrombus, endovascular implantation of 125I seeds under the dual-guidance of ultrasound and digital subtraction angiography is clinically safe and feasible. This treatment has satisfactory effect on the portal vein tumor thrombus.