Bland embolization

Bland embolization is a medical procedure used in the treatment of tumors. It involves the injection of substances to block or reduce the blood flow to cancer cells in the body. This procedure is often used in the treatment of liver cancer and other types of cancer that are fed by the body's blood vessels.

Procedure

The procedure of bland embolization is performed by a radiologist who uses imaging guidance. The radiologist inserts a catheter into the patient's blood vessel through a small incision in the skin. The catheter is then guided to the area of the body where the tumor is located. Once the catheter is in place, the radiologist injects small particles into the blood vessels that feed the tumor. These particles block the blood vessels, cutting off the tumor's blood supply and causing it to shrink.

Uses

Bland embolization is used to treat tumors that cannot be removed with surgery. It is often used in the treatment of liver cancer, but it can also be used to treat other types of cancer. The procedure can be used to shrink tumors before surgery, making them easier to remove. It can also be used to relieve symptoms in patients with advanced cancer.

Risks and Complications

Like all medical procedures, bland embolization carries some risks. These include infection, bleeding, damage to the blood vessels, and reactions to the substances used in the procedure. In rare cases, the procedure can cause serious complications such as liver damage or kidney failure.

See Also

• Transarterial chemoembolization
• Radioembolization
• Interventional radiology

References

• National Cancer Institute
• American College of Radiology
• Radiological Society of North America

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