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Home > Transarterial Chemoembolisation (TACE)

Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr. Salal N, Specialist - Interventional Radiology, Meitra Hospital, Kozhikode

Transarterial Chemoembolisation (TACE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure used to treat liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) and some metastatic tumors. It combines chemotherapy and embolisation, delivering anti-cancer drugs directly into the tumor’s blood supply while blocking blood flow to the tumor — effectively starving it of oxygen and nutrients.

TACE is performed by interventional radiologists and is an excellent option for patients who are not suitable for surgery or liver transplantation.

What is Transarterial Chemoembolisation (TACE)?

TACE is a targeted therapy that delivers high doses of chemotherapy directly into the blood vessels feeding a tumor in the liver. Tiny particles (embolic agents) are then injected to block the blood supply, trapping the drug in the tumor for maximum effect.

When is TACE recommended?

TACE is primarily used for:

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) – the most common type of primary liver cancer
  • Metastatic liver tumors (from colon, breast, or other cancers)
  • Patients not eligible for surgery, liver transplant, or systemic chemotherapy
  • Recurrent tumors after previous treatments
How is TACE performed?
  • The procedure is done under local anesthesia with mild sedation.
  • A small catheter is inserted through the femoral (groin) artery artery radial artery (wrist) and guided into the hepatic artery using X-ray imaging.
  • A chemotherapy drug is injected directly into the artery feeding the tumor, followed by microspheres or particles to block the vessel (embolisation).
  • The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours and is performed on an outpatient or short-stay basis.
Is TACE painful?

TACE is minimally invasive and not painful during the procedure due to local anesthesia. Some patients may experience mild post-procedure discomfort, low-grade fever, or fatigue — commonly referred to as post-embolisation syndrome, which subsides within a few days.

Is TACE safe?

Yes. TACE is a safe and well-established treatment for liver cancer when performed by skilled interventional radiologists. Risks are rare and may include temporary nausea, pain, or mild liver function changes, which are carefully managed with medications and monitoring.

What is recovery like after TACE?
  • Hospital stay: Usually 1–2 days
  • Rest and hydration are advised for a few days
  • Most patients resume normal activities within a week
  • Regular follow-up imaging (CT/MRI) helps assess tumor response
  • Multiple sessions may be required depending on tumor size and location.
What are the benefits of TACE?
  • Targets tumors directly with minimal effect on healthy tissue
  • Reduces tumor size and slows progression
  • Can improve survival in patients with inoperable liver cancer
  • Often combined with other treatments like radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA) or systemic therapy for enhanced results
Who is not suitable for TACE?

TACE may not be recommended if you have:

  • Poor liver function (advanced cirrhosis)
  • Blockage in the portal vein (portal vein thrombosis)
  • Extensive extrahepatic disease

Your oncology team will evaluate your overall health and liver function before planning the procedure.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with liver cancer or metastatic tumors, the Interventional Radiology & Oncology Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers advanced Transarterial Chemoembolisation (TACE) — combining precision, safety, and proven outcomes for liver-directed cancer treatment.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our interventional oncology specialists.

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