Minimally Invasive Liver Treatment
Portal Vein Embolization (PVE)
About The Portal Vein Embolization Procedure
PVE is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure that helps patients with liver tumors become better candidates for surgery. The procedure involves blocking the portal vein that supplies blood to the tumor-affected part of the liver, which redirects blood flow to the healthy portion of the liver. This process stimulates growth in the healthy liver tissue, known as hypertrophy, while the tumor-affected portion begins to shrink.
Performed by an interventional radiologist, PVE starts with a small incision in the upper abdomen. Using ultrasound and fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) guidance, the radiologist navigates a catheter to the portal vein. Tiny particles are then injected to block the blood flow to the targeted liver section followed by coil embolization. The procedure is done under moderate sedation or general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.
About 3 to 4 weeks after the PVE, patients undergo liver resection surgery to remove the shrunken, tumor-affected portion of the liver. This two-step approach enhances the safety and success rate of the surgery.
Conditions Portal Vein Embolization Treats
PVE is used primarily to treat liver tumors, both primary and metastatic, by preparing the liver for surgery:
- Primary Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma): PVE helps shrink the tumor-affected part of the liver, making surgical removal safer.
- Metastatic Liver Disease: PVE promotes the growth of healthy liver tissue, preparing the liver for effective surgical intervention.
Benefits and Effectiveness of Portal Vein Embolization
PVE offers several significant benefits and is highly effective in preparing patients for liver surgery:
- Increased Surgical Success: Promotes the growth of healthy liver tissue, increasing the chances of successful tumor removal.
- Minimally Invasive: Requires only a small incision, reducing risks and recovery time.
- Outpatient Procedure: Most patients can return home the same day.
- Effective Liver Preparation: Redirects blood flow to promote healthy liver tissue growth, making surgery safer and more feasible.
Risks
While PVE is generally safe, it is important to be aware of potential risks associated with the procedure:
- Infection: Small risk of infection at the incision site.
- Bleeding: Insertion of the catheter can cause bleeding, especially in patients with clotting disorders.
- Portal Vein Thrombosis: Rare but serious risk of blood clots forming in the portal vein.
- Allergic Reaction: Possible reaction to the contrast dye used during the procedure.
- Post-Embolization Syndrome: Flu-like symptoms managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and rest.
Contact Florida Radiology Consultants About PVE
For more information about portal vein embolization and other advanced interventional radiology treatments, contact Florida Radiology Consultants today. As experts in interventional radiology, we provide cutting-edge treatments like PVE to patients in Southwest Florida, including Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and the surrounding areas. Our team is dedicated to offering precise, effective care for liver tumors.
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