The radiologist then threads the catheter up through the aorta and into the artery in the liver that feeds the tumor. Chemotherapy, mixed with a special oil which is taken up specifically by the tumor, is then injected directly through the catheter into this artery and into the tumor. Immediately afterwards, tiny protein sponge particles are injected which get caught up in the tiny blood vessels and block them. The entire procedure generally takes about two hours. There are many possible side effects from chemoembolization, since it involves both chemotherapy and the possible destruction of normal liver tissue as well as tumor.
Most people experience some pain, fever, loss of appetite and fatigue.
They are generally in the hospital for three to five days but then feel quite tired and may have low grade fevers for up to four weeks afterwards. It is possible that more serious side effects may occur. The overall risk of serious complication is related to a person's general underlying health, as well as the overall function of their liver. People with jaundice, severe cirrhosis, blockage of the portal vein in the liver, or very rapidly growing tumor are at significantly higher risk for complications and death. People without these problems usually tolerate the chemoembolization much more easily.