The Role and Function of TARE Y-90 Therapy in Non-Surgical Liver Cancer Treatment

Peran dan Fungsi Terapi TARE Y-90 dalam Pengobatan Kanker Hati Tanpa Operasi

TARE Y-90 therapy is a radiation-based treatment for liver cancer that uses radioactive Yttrium-90 to directly target tumors. During the procedure, microscopic particles containing Y-90 are delivered through blood vessels to the tumor, allowing radiation to act precisely on the cancerous area. This approach enables effective destruction of cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy liver tissue. In addition, this therapy can help shrink tumors, relieve symptoms, and improve patients’ overall quality of life.

At Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, TARE Y-90 therapy is available and performed by an interventional radiology specialist, dr. Sugianto Santoso, Sp.Rad (K)RI.

How Does TARE Y-90 Therapy Work for Non-Surgical Liver Cancer Treatment?

In general, the TARE Y-90 procedure involves several stages:

  • Before the main procedure, the doctor performs a mapping angiogram, an imaging test to identify the blood vessels supplying the tumor. This step helps determine the best pathway for delivering Y-90 particles effectively.
  • Next, microscopic particles containing Y-90 are inserted into the blood vessels leading to the liver tumor.
  • These particles travel through the bloodstream directly to the tumor.
  • Once they reach the tumor, Y-90 emits high-dose radiation to destroy cancer cells.
  • The radiation is highly targeted, helping protect the surrounding healthy liver tissue.
  • With better tumor control, patients may experience longer survival, reduced symptoms, and improved quality of life.

Who Can Undergo TARE Y-90 Therapy?

TARE Y-90 therapy is generally recommended for liver cancer patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery. It can also be used to control tumor growth while preserving liver function, and even as a preparatory step for further treatments. Candidates may include:

  • Patients with primary liver cancer
  • Patients with cancer that has spread to the liver (metastasis)
  • Patients who cannot undergo surgery, for example due to tumors located near major blood vessels
  • Patients who need treatment to slow tumor growth while maintaining liver function
  • Patients being prepared for further treatments such as surgery or liver transplantation after tumor size is controlled

What Happens After TARE Y-90 Therapy?

After the procedure, patients are usually monitored in a recovery room for about 4–5 hours. In some cases, an overnight hospital stay may be recommended for further observation, although most patients can go home the same day if their condition is stable.

Further treatment plans will depend on each patient’s condition. Some patients may only require one session, while others may need multiple treatments. Additional therapies such as chemotherapy or surgery may also be necessary depending on disease progression.

How Effective Is TARE Y-90 Therapy?

TARE Y-90 therapy has been shown to help extend survival in patients with inoperable liver cancer, from only a few months to approximately 2–3 years. It also helps relieve symptoms, improving overall quality of life. Today, Y-90 therapy is increasingly used as an initial step before more definitive treatments, such as surgery.

TARE Y-90 Therapy at Mandaya Hospital

dr. Sugianto Santoso, Sp.Rad (K)RI is a radiologist with a subspecialty in interventional radiology, experienced in a wide range of minimally invasive procedures using advanced imaging technology. He completed his medical degree at Maranatha Christian University in Bandung and pursued his radiology specialization at Universitas Indonesia.

In his practice, dr. Sugianto Santoso treats various conditions without open surgery, including liver cancer and other complex diseases. His expertise includes interventional procedures such as Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for thyroid nodules, Microwave Ablation (MWA) for tumors and liver cancer, and Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) as one of the liver cancer treatments.

With the support of advanced medical technology and a minimally invasive approach, TARE Y-90 therapy at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri offers a targeted, safe, and effective treatment option for liver cancer patients.

dr. Sugianto Santoso, Sp.Rad (K)RI is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:

  • Tuesday: 16:00 – 20:00 WIB
  • Thursday: 16:00 – 20:00 WIB

To make your visit easier, you can use the WhatsApp Chat feature, Book Appointment service, or the Care Dokter application available on Google Play and the App Store to check queue numbers and access complete information.

The information on this page is provided for educational purposes and general overview only, and may not represent all medical services performed by each doctor. For appropriate treatment based on your condition, it is recommended to consult directly with the doctor.

If you have any questions, suggestions, or need further information, please contact our call center at 0811-1900-2000.

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