UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS LIVER TUMORS

Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive procedure in which the doctor uses targeted heat to destroy a non-resectable tumor. Ablation can be performed in an outpatient setting and may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy, radiation, or other therapies.¹ Studies show that ablation is a good alternative when a liver tumor cannot be removed surgically.^2-4

Microwave ablation procedures are not recommended for patients with cardiac pacemaker or other implanted electronic devices. Potential risks have not been evaluated.

Microwave ablation procedures are not recommended for pregnant patients. Potential risks to the patient and/or fetus have not been established.

SURGICAL REMOVAL

In a procedure called a partial hepatectomy, the surgeon removes the part of the liver containing the tumor. However, surgical removal is only feasible in approximately 10–20% of cases.⁵

TRANSPLANT

Your doctor may consider a liver transplant if the tumor(s) cannot be removed with surgery. However, transplant opportunities are limited due to a long nationwide waitlist.

RADIATION

Targeted doses of radiation can destroy or shrink liver tumors.

CHEMOTHERAPY

Chemotherapy involves delivering drugs throughout the body to destroy as much of the tumor(s) as possible.

EMBOLIZATION

This minimally invasive technique destroys the tumor by placing substances inside the tumor to cut off blood supply to the tumor cells. The substances may include chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy agents.

WATCHFUL WAITING

Your doctor may choose to monitor the tumor carefully over time to see if it is growing or causing liver damage.