Radioembolization complicated by nontarget embolization to the falciform artery

Semin Intervent Radiol. 2011 Jun;28(2):234-9. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1280672.

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.

Keywords: Radioembolization; falciform artery; yttrium-90.