Hepatic malignancies, whether primary, metastatic or both, are significant obstacles in the world of oncology. Medical science has made great strides in the past few decades, creating new and innovative treatments to fight these powerful adversaries. Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIT) is one promising treatment modality that can offer renewed hope for patients who are battling liver tumours.
Understanding Hepatic Tumors
It is crucial to first understand the nature of hepatic malignancies before diving deep into SIT. Hepatic malignancies include a variety of liver tumours. They can either be primary liver tumours or spread from other parts to the hepatic (metastatic) tumours. Primary liver tumours commonly include intrahepatic and hepatocellular cholangiocarcinomas, while metastatic tumours typically originate from colorectal cancer, lung, or breast cancer.
Hepatic Tumour Treatment
The treatment options for hepatic cancers can be complex depending on the location of the tumour, its size, and the underlying liver function. Traditional treatment options include liver resections and transplantations, as well as systemic therapies such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy. However, they may not always work, especially in cases of difficult-to-remove tumors or resistant systemic treatments. The liver has a unique blood supply that makes it difficult for therapeutic agents to be delivered directly to the tumour site while sparing normal liver tissue.
SIT Procedure
SIT, or radio embolization (also known as SIT), is an innovative approach to treating liver tumours that addresses limitations in traditional therapies. SIT delivers precise radiation directly to liver tumors using tiny microspheres. These microspheres contain a yttrium90 (Y90) radioisotope and are administered through a catheter directly into the hepatic vessel, which provides blood to the liver and tumours.
How SIT Functions?
The SIT procedure works by tumour cells preferentially absorbing microspheres within the liver. Hepatic lesions have a higher metabolism and greater blood flow compared to healthy liver tissue. The microspheres get lodged in the tumour vessels, emitting localized radiation. They effectively target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissue. This targeted approach increases the therapeutic response by maximising tumour response with minimal side effects.
SIT Procedure: Advantages
The SIT procedure is superior to other hepatic neoplasm treatments. First, SIT’s targeted delivery allows for precise radiotherapy to the tumour site, reducing damage to nearby healthy tissues and minimizing side effects associated with traditional radiation therapy. SIT can also be used in conjunction with chemotherapy, surgery, or immunotherapy, allowing for a more personalized approach to cancer therapy. SIT provides durable tumour reduction and increased overall survival in select patient groups, making it an attractive option for patients with unrespectable tumours.
Patient Experiences And Outcomes
SIT procedure patients report little discomfort. The process usually includes a brief stay in the hospital for catheter placement and microsphere delivery. Postoperative nausea, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue are examples of mild adverse effects that may manifest. Nonetheless, these are generally transient in nature and vanish within a week. SIT is a treatment that has a significant impact on symptoms and the quality of life for many patients.
Interventional Radiologists
Interventional radiologists perform SIT and optimize patient outcomes. These highly specialized specialists have expertise in minimally invasive procedures guided by images and work with a multidisciplinary team to create treatment plans tailored to each patient’s individual needs. At https://www.asappaindocs.com/ our team of interventional doctors is dedicated to compassionate care and providing cutting-edge treatments, including SIT, for patients with hepatic cancers.
Conclusion
SIT treatment is an effective and promising treatment for patients with hepatic cancers. SIT provides targeted radiotherapy with minimal side effects. SIT empowers patients by harnessing the power and precision of medicine to fight liver cancer. SIT holds the promise to revolutionize hepatic tumour treatments as the field of interventional radiology continues to advance.