Abstract
1115
Objectives: To describe the utility of FDG-PET and FDG-PET/CT before and after radio-embolization with Yttrium-90 (90Y) in: 1) patient selection, 2) treatment planning, 3) prognosis evaluation, and 4) treatment response assessment.
Methods: Hepatic radio-embolization using 90Y microspheres is an established interventional oncology treatment for patients with unresectable liver metastases. Because of the potential risk for toxicity to lungs, liver and gastrointestinal tract, a careful patient selection is crucial. An accurate staging procedure is also of great importance to rule out extrahepatic progression of disease. Moreover, it provides a means to assess the treatment response in patients undergoing 90Y radio-embolization.
Results: FDG-PET and FDG-PET/CT are non-invasive imaging modalities which have become well established tools in different oncologic scenarios. Since molecular changes precede structural manifestations, FDG-PET can provide valuable information regarding the disease burden. We review the emerging role of FDG-PET and FDG-PET/CT in patient selection and treatment planning, prognosis evaluation and treatment response assessment in patients undergoing 90Y radio-embolization.
Conclusions: FDG-PET and FDG-PET/CT is increasingly utilized in the assessment of patients with hepatic tumor receiving 90Y radio-embolization. In selective populations, these modalities provide utility for patient selection, treatment planning, prognosis evaluation, and treatment response assessment.