Home - Liver Cancer Service

What is RADLOBE™ Method?

RADLOBE™ Method is a minimally invasive technique where radiation is delivered specifically to the affected area of the liver in a way that mimics the effect of a surgical lobectomy (removal of part of the liver) but without the need for cutting. The goal is to destroy the tumor or part of it while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy liver tissue.

Use of Yttrium Microspheres

Yttrium-90 (Y-90) microspheres are tiny beads that contain the radioactive isotope yttrium-90. These microspheres are typically used in a procedure called selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT), or radioembolization, which is a form of internal radiation therapy. The beads are delivered directly into the blood vessels that feed the liver tumor.

How it Works

Large liver tumor candidate for RADLOBE™ Method

Localization with mapping procedure.

Confirmation after treatment with RADLOBE™ Method

Excellent results after RADLOBE™ Method

How it Works

Mapping and Planning

The first step involves imaging (such as CT or angiography) to map the liver's blood supply and locate the tumors. This step is crucial to ensure that the radiation will target the tumor effectively.

Delivery of Yttrium Microspheres

A catheter is inserted into an artery (usually through the femoral artery in the groin) and threaded up to the liver, specifically to the blood vessels supplying the tumor. The yttrium microspheres are then injected directly into these arteries. Because tumors in the liver often have their own blood supply, the microspheres become trapped in the vessels, delivering a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor.

Radiation Effect

Yttrium-90 is a beta-emitting radioisotope. As the microspheres lodge in the blood vessels feeding the tumor, the radiation emitted by the yttrium-90 destroys cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy liver tissue.

Advantages of Yttrium Microspheres

GettyImages-1080011718-b7f22fa56b934a6b96c23e17458086c9

Localized Treatment

The radiation is delivered directly to the tumor, minimizing damage to the healthy liver and surrounding structures.

Minimally Invasive

Unlike traditional surgery, this procedure is minimally invasive, requiring only a small incision or catheter insertion

Suitable for Inoperable Tumors

For patients whose liver cancer is not amenable to surgical resection or liver transplantation, this procedure can provide a therapeutic option.

Effective for Large Tumors

It is often used for tumors that are too large or located in areas of the liver that are difficult to treat surgically.