Radioembolization Complicated by Nontarget Embolization to the Falciform Artery

 

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ABSTRACT

The most common application of radioembolization is in the treatment of primary and secondary liver tumors, and the most common radioisotope is Yttrium-90. This form of treatment has proven to be successful in achieving reduction of tumor size and ultimately improving survival. Fatigue and nausea/vomiting are the most common side effects related to radioembolization and are usually self-limiting. This report describes a case of abdominal pain caused by shunting of yttrium-90 microspheres to the anterior abdominal wall via a patent hepatic falciform artery. This case highlights the need for vigilant angiography and awareness of the falciform artery with prophylactic embolization when necessary/warranted.

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Sheetal M BhalaniM.D. 

Department of Radiology, Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation

676 North St. Clair Street Ste 800, Chicago IL 60611

Email: s-manvar@northwestern.edu