Y-90 Radioembolization

Liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, and it’s increasing at a high rate. In White Plains, New York, board-certified diagnostic and interventional radiologist Tate Kirk, MD, offers Y-90 radioembolization to treat liver cancer without surgery. Schedule an evaluation by phone or request one online today to learn more about this cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure. 

What is Y-90 radioembolization?

Y-90 radioembolization is a minimally invasive liver cancer treatment in which Dr. Kirk injects radioactive material (Y-90 beads) into the blood supply of cancerous liver tumors. 

This procedure works by blocking the blood supply that feeds the tumor, while releasing high-dose radiation. As the radiation beads reach the tumor, they kill cancer cells while minimizing damage to nearby healthy liver tissue. 

Y-90 radioembolization can boost life expectancy with very few side effects in people with liver cancer. 

Who might be a candidate for Y-90 radioembolization?

Y-90 radioembolization can treat cancer that has started in the liver or cancer that spreads to the liver from other areas (colon cancer, breast cancer). It can also treat some bile duct cancers. You might need Y-90 radioembolization if surgery isn’t an option.  

Undergoing Y-90 radioembolization might also make you eligible for future treatments, including a liver transplant. 

How can I prepare for Y-90 radioembolization?

Follow Dr. Kirk’s instructions to prepare for Y-90 radioembolization. He completes a physical exam, liver function tests, and blood testing prior to treatment. He may ask you to avoid food, drinks, and some medications before the procedure. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home afterward. 

What happens during Y-90 radioembolization?

Y-90 radioembolization requires a mapping angiogram and a Y-90 infusion, often taking place about one week apart. 

Mapping angiogram:

During a mapping angiogram, imaging shows the network of blood vessels supplying a liver tumor. Dr. Kirk uses this information to map the route of injectable Y-90 beads. 

He numbs the area and offers a sedative. Dr. Kirk makes a tiny incision in your wrist or groin, locates a major artery leading to the tumor, and threads a catheter (tiny tube) into the artery. He injects a dye to make the blood vessels stand out and learn where to inject the Y-90 beads. Mapping angiograms may take 1-2 hours. 

Y-90 infusion

During Y-90 infusion, Dr. Kirk again numbs the area and offers a sedative. He takes the same approach as a mapping angiogram, but injects Y-90 beads into your bloodstream until they reach the liver tumor. The beads block blood flow to shrink the tumor and release high-dose radiation. A Y-90 infusion may last about 1 hour. 

What can I expect after Y-90 radioembolization?

You may go home the same day. Get plenty of rest, take any medications as directed, and avoid strenuous activity for at least a few days.

Schedule an evaluation with Tate Kirk, MD, by phone or request an appointment online today to learn if you’re a candidate for Y-90 radioembolization.