Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Trans-arterial Chemoembolization using drug- loaded microspheres: preliminary single-institution experience in Vietnam

Aims: to evaluate the preliminary results and safety of TACE using doxorubicin loaded microspheres for the treatment of HCC.Subjects and methods: a prospective non-randomized study involved 62 HCC patients (mean tumor size: 71.6±22.2mm) underwent TACE using drug-loaded beads from June 2011 to August 2013. We used 1 or 2 from 3 different sizes of DC-Beads (100-300μ 300-500μ and 500-700μ) loaded with 50-75mg doxorubicin in a procedure. Tumor responses were evaluated at 3 month and 6 month after the first procedure according to modified RECIST. The 6-month, 12-month and 24-month survival rate were calculated. Post-embolization syndrome and complications were also recorded.Results: A total 98 procedures were performed successfully The objective response rate according to modified RECIST was 79.4% and 53.2% at 3- month and 6- month follow up. The 6-month, 12-month and 24-month survival rate was 91.9%; 72.5% and 68%, respectively. Post-embolization syndrome was observed in 87.7% of cases but mild and recovered without any treatment. There were 3 cases (3%) of post-embolization complications including tumour abscess, pleural effusion and acute live failure. Five deaths occurred within 6 months of follow-up due to progression of the disease but there were no case of procedure-related death.Conclusion: DC-Beads TACE is a safe and effective treatment for patients with HCC.