Tumor embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat certain types of cancer by cutting off or reducing the blood supply to the tumor. This can be done either as a preoperative measure to shrink the tumor before surgery, or as a definitive treatment for certain inoperable/bleeding/benign tumors.
In preoperative tumor embolization, the procedure is done before surgery to help limit blood loss during the surgery. This can make the surgery safer and more effective. It involves injecting small particles into the blood vessels that supply the tumor, blocking them and reducing blood flow to the tumor. This can also help to reduce pain and other symptoms caused by the tumor.
In definitive tumor embolization, the procedure is used as a stand-alone treatment for tumors that are benign or very vascular and are at a risk for bleeding. The goal of definitive tumor embolization is to starve the tumor of its blood supply, which can cause it to shrink and die. This can help to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for the patient.
Overall, tumor embolization is a safe and effective treatment option for certain types of cancer, and it can be done as a preoperative measure or as a definitive treatment. The decision to undergo tumor embolization should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into consideration factors such as the type and location of the tumor, the patient’s overall health, and their risk of complications.