I believe that intra-arterial chemotherapy is valuable and is used frequently in the treatment of my patients. In addition, intra-arterial chemotherapy is effective in treating unresectable liver tumors. In patients who achieve significant tumor shrinkage following intra-arterial therapy, I have been able to successfully perform a liver resection at a later time. In patients who do not become resection candidates, intra-arterial chemotherapy can prolong survival. However, only two prospective randomized trials have demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in survival.
Research is currently ongoing in an attempt to identify the most effective drugs.
Before consenting to chemotherapy, be sure to find out what drugs will be used and how they will be administered. Ask for a frank discussion of possible side effects and pay particular attention to these that may persist or cause permanent damage. Ask for alternatives and discuss what may happen if you choose not to undergo chemotherapy. Chemotherapy, like all cancer treatments, is a matter of choice and is something you should consider carefully. You should feel confident that chemotherapy is the best treatment option at the given time and that your doctor is doing everything possible to keep you informed and comfortable.