TARE (TRANS ARTERIAL RADIO EMBOLISATION)

What is TARE:

• TransArterial RadioEmbolization (“TARE”) is a minimally invasive treatment for liver cancer. It is also called radioembolization/ micro-brachytherapy. 
• The procedure involves threading a small tube into the blood vessels feeding the tumour(s) and injecting radioactive beads. The beads deliver high doses of radiation to the tumour, killing it over time.

How is TARE done:

• TARE requires two separate procedures.
  • First, maps out blood supply of liver to see what is feeding the tumour(s). Then inject a test substance to see if it goes to the lungs or other organs that could be hurt by the radiation.
  • The second procedure is the actual treatment. It involves injection of radioactive beads into the vessels feeding the tumour(s).

In whom it is preferred:

• It is generally for patients who had surgically unresectable cancers, especially hepatocellular carcinoma or metastasis to the liver.

Preparation for the procedure:

• Few basic blood investigations like LFT, CBC, PT/INR, viral markers.
• Fasting for 4-6 hrs.
• Bring all the records including imaging record.
• Signing consent form.

What are risks:

• TARE is generally a safe procedure when done by a specialist. 
  • Major complications occur in 2 in 100 cases. These include liver failure, infection, lung or stomach damage, or injury to the blood vessels.
  • Minor complications occur in 1 in 5 cases. These include bleeding and temporary kidney injury, abdominal pain, fever, and/or nausea.