Liver cancer is a condition in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the liver. This disease often does not cause symptoms in its early stages, so many cases are only detected at an advanced stage. Treating liver cancer can be challenging, especially due to the tumor’s location in a vital organ and the often complex condition of patients. Not all patients are eligible for surgery, while treatments such as chemotherapy or conventional radiotherapy also have limitations in terms of effectiveness and side effects.
One of the innovations in liver cancer treatment is TARE Y-90 (Transarterial Radioembolization), a minimally invasive procedure that uses microscopic particles containing the radioactive substance Yttrium-90 to deliver radiation directly to the tumor through blood vessels. This approach allows radiation to be more targeted, helping shrink tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
At Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital, TARE Y-90 therapy is available as one of the advanced treatment options for liver cancer patients. The procedure is performed by an interventional radiology specialist, dr. Sugianto Santoso, Sp.Rad (K)RI, who is experienced in handling various cancer cases using minimally invasive techniques.
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What is TARE Y-90 and How Does It Work?
TARE Y-90 is a type of liver cancer treatment that uses radiation. “Y-90” stands for Yttrium-90, a radioactive substance. In this procedure, doctors insert tiny particles (microspheres) containing Y-90 into the blood vessels that supply the tumor. Once they reach the tumor, these particles release high-dose radiation to destroy cancer cells while causing minimal damage to healthy liver tissue. This therapy has been widely used, with more than 100,000 doses administered to liver cancer patients across more than 1,000 medical centers in over 40 countries.
TARE Y-90 can help shrink tumor size. It can also slow cancer progression, allowing patients to live longer, experience fewer symptoms, and maintain a better quality of life.
General Procedure of TARE Y-90
- The first stage is an initial examination (mapping/angiogram) to prepare the liver before therapy
- During this stage, doctors evaluate the blood vessels supplying the tumor to determine the pathway for Y-90 particles, and may block certain vessels to prevent particles from reaching other organs such as the stomach or intestines
- Patients are also given a test substance to assess blood flow from the liver to the lungs
- If results are safe, the appropriate Y-90 dose will be determined
- The main procedure is usually performed 1–2 weeks after the initial stage
- During the procedure, a small puncture is made in the groin or wrist to insert a catheter, which is guided through blood vessels to the liver
- Y-90 particles are then delivered directly to the tumor through the catheter
- The procedure typically takes about 90 minutes
- Afterward, a scan may be performed to confirm the particles are properly delivered
- Patients are monitored for several hours to detect any side effects or complications
Benefits of TARE Y-90 for Liver Cancer Treatment
1. Helps Shrink Tumors More Effectively
Clinical data shows that TARE Y-90 combined with chemotherapy can shrink liver tumors more effectively than chemotherapy alone. In some cases, tumor shrinkage may even allow surgical removal later on.
2. Improves Life Expectancy and Quality of Life
This therapy has been shown to help extend patients’ survival while improving their overall quality of life, especially in difficult-to-treat cases.
3. Effective for Chemotherapy-Resistant Tumors
For patients whose tumors no longer respond to chemotherapy, TARE Y-90 can still help reduce tumor size and prolong survival.
4. Targeted Radiation with Minimal Side Effects
Unlike conventional external radiation therapy, TARE Y-90 delivers radiation directly to the tumor via the bloodstream, allowing higher doses to the tumor with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
5. Minimally Invasive with Faster Recovery
This procedure does not require major surgery or large incisions, resulting in faster recovery time and minimal scarring compared to conventional surgical approaches.
Who is Suitable for TARE Y-90?
TARE Y-90 is suitable for patients with tumors located in the liver, especially when the liver is the primary or main site of the disease. This therapy does not treat tumors outside the liver.
Before undergoing TARE Y-90, doctors will evaluate several factors. One of the most important is ensuring that the patient’s liver is still functioning well, which is usually assessed through simple blood tests.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Almost all treatments and medications can cause side effects. Some are mild and only cause discomfort, while others can be more serious. Each person may respond differently to treatment.
Possible side effects of TARE Y-90 include:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Mild fever (may last up to about 1 week)
- Fatigue (may last several weeks)
As a precaution, doctors may prescribe additional medications such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-nausea medication, and gastric protection drugs to help prevent or reduce these side effects.
Interested in Consulting About TARE Y-90?
If you would like to learn more about TARE Y-90 for liver cancer treatment, you can consult with dr. Sugianto Santoso, Sp.Rad (K)RI, an interventional radiology specialist at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital.
An interventional radiologist uses imaging techniques such as CT scans, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, and MRI to diagnose and treat diseases using minimally invasive methods, including TARE Y-90.
During the consultation, the doctor may ask about your medical history and previous cancer treatments. Additional tests may also be performed to determine whether TARE Y-90 is suitable and safe for your condition, or to recommend the most appropriate treatment option.
Practice Schedule:
- Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
To make your visit easier, you can use WhatsApp Chat, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app available on Google Play and the App Store to schedule consultations, check queue numbers, and access hospital information.
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and does not represent all available medical services. For appropriate treatment, direct consultation with a doctor is recommended.
For further information, please contact the call center at 0811-1900-2000.
