Managing Liver Cancer with Y90 Treatment: Everything You Need to Know
Liver cancer is a serious medical condition that affects a large number of people worldwide. According to recent statistics, liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer in men and the ninth most common cancer in women. Managing liver cancer can be challenging, but with the right treatment, it is possible to improve outcomes and increase survival rates.
One of the most effective treatment options for liver cancer is Y90 treatment, which involves the injection of tiny radioactive beads into the liver to kill cancer cells. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about managing liver cancer with Y90 treatment.
The Basics of Y90 Treatment
Y90 treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers targeted radiation therapy directly to the liver. The procedure involves the injection of microspheres, also known as particles, into the liver. These particles contain a radioactive substance called yttrium-90, which emits radiation that damages cancer cells.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients are able to go home the same day. Y90 treatment is typically used to treat liver cancer that cannot be surgically removed or has spread to other parts of the body.
How Y90 Treatment Works
Y90 treatment works by targeting the blood vessels that supply the cancerous tumor. The radioactive microspheres are injected through a small catheter into the hepatic artery that feeds the tumor. The microspheres get trapped in the vessels, blocking blood flow to the tumor and delivering radiation directly to the cancer cells.
The radiation emitted by the yttrium-90 is short-lived, lasting only a few days. During this time, the radiation kills cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. The dead cells are then absorbed and eliminated by the body.
Benefits of Y90 Treatment
Y90 treatment offers several benefits over other treatment options for liver cancer. Some of the benefits include:
– Minimally invasive procedure with minimal side-effects
– Targeted radiation therapy that spares healthy tissue
– Higher doses of radiation delivered directly to the tumor
– Can be used to treat inoperable tumors or tumors that have spread to other parts of the body
– Increased survival rates and improved quality of life for patients
Risks and Side-Effects of Y90 Treatment
Like any medical procedure, Y90 treatment does come with some risks and potential side-effects. Some of the most common side-effects include:
– Pain or discomfort at the injection site
– Nausea or vomiting
– Fatigue or weakness
– Mild fever or chills
– Loss of appetite
In rare cases, serious complications can occur, such as liver failure or infection. It is essential to speak with your doctor before undergoing Y90 treatment to discuss the risks and potential side-effects.
Conclusion
Y90 treatment is an effective and minimally invasive treatment option for managing liver cancer. The procedure delivers targeted radiation therapy directly to the affected part of the liver, improving outcomes and increasing survival rates for patients. While Y90 treatment can come with some risks and potential side-effects, it is a safe and proven treatment option for those with liver cancer. Speak with your medical team to learn more about Y90 treatment and how it can help you manage liver cancer.
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