Liver cancer occurs when abnormal unregulated cancer cells begin to grow and multiply within the liver. Advanced liver cancer has typically progressed too far throughout the liver or body to respond to curative treatment measures. However, if you have advanced liver cancer you may find a number of treatment options that may help to alleviate or manage the symptoms associated with the disease.
Ablation
Ablation is a type of liver cancer treatment that destroys cancer cells within the liver through the use of radiofrequency or ethanol injection. Radiofrequency ablation utilizes heat generated by small electrodes to kill cancer cells, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Ethanol injection is a technique in which your doctor uses a small thin needle to deliver ethanol directly into the tumor, which acts to kill cancer cells. In people who have advanced liver cancer, these ablation techniques may help to control the extent of the cancer or may prolong life. However, ablation is not a curative cancer treatment for people with advanced liver cancer. Side effects of ablation may include fever and pain, which may be alleviated with medications suggested by your doctor. If you have any questions about ablation treatment, discuss them with your doctor prior to beginning treatment.
Embolization
Certain people with advanced liver cancer may benefit from embolization treatment. This treatment involves the injection of tiny sponges into the hepatic (liver) artery, which acts to cut off blood supply to the liver tumor. Without blood, the liver tumor cancer cells will die, according to the NCI. In advanced stages of liver disease, embolization may help control the further spread of cancer throughout the body. Though this type of treatment will not cure advanced stages of liver cancer, it may help prolong the lives of some patients. Side effects of embolization include fever, nausea, abdominal pain and vomiting, which may be controlled with medication. Discuss any questions you may have regarding embolization with your doctor before beginning treatment.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy may provide some benefits for people with advanced liver cancer. This type of therapy utilizes high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells or diminish the size of tumors. Though radiation therapy does not provide a curative treatment for people with advanced liver cancer, it may help alleviate some of the cancer symptoms, such as pain. Typically, radiation therapy does not help to prolong the life of patients, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Side effects of radiation therapy may include skin changes, nausea, vomiting or fatigue. These symptoms normally resolve once treatment has ended. Any questions or concerns you have about radiation therapy should be discussed with your doctor before you begin treatment.
