Chemoembolization with HepaSpheres as a stage of comprehensive treatment for malignant pelvic tumors

Abstract

Genital bleeding poses a serious threat to patients with progressive locally advanced malignant tumors. Surgical treatment is often impossible in these patients; therefore, to achieve reliable hemostasis, the patients should undergo embolization of vessels feeding the tumor. Good results have been achieved by selective catheterization of pelvic arteries using chemoembolization with HepaSphere microspheres (Biosphere Medical, France) delivering the therapeutic agent to the tumor. Hydrophilicity of microspheres loaded with cytostatics and their biological compatibility with tissues ensure long-term therapeutic effect by controlling tumor growth. Pronounced hemostatic and antitumor effects of this treatment method have been confirmed by a morphological study. This study analyzes 38 patients that underwent chemoembolization with HepaSpheres loaded with doxorubicin or irinotecan, which allowed surgery and further treatment.