Intra-arterial Chemotherapy - Intra-Arterial Chemotherapy

Intra-arterial Chemotherapy
UPMC

Intra-arterial chemotherapy is a procedure used to treat a number of tumor types. While most commonly associated with the treatment of tumors found in the liver and pancreas, it may also be used to treat tumors found in the brain, head, face, and neck.

Prior to treatment, patients undergo a series of brain scans and an arteriogram (x-rays of the arteries) to identify the artery that supplies blood to the tumor. Once the artery has been identified, patients are given drugs to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier, allowing the chemotherapy drugs to be more concentrated. A catheter is then inserted into the artery to deliver treatment. Patients may also be given blood thinners to prevent stroke and medication to prevent seizures.

The risks and side effects associated with this type of treatment are similar to traditional chemotherapy.

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