Chemoembolization for Liver Cancer: Procedure, Side Effects, and Cost

Liver cancer is a severe health condition. Depending on the stage, liver cancer treatment includes various methods, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemoembolization. Chemoembolization procedure virtually combines local chemotherapy with embolization, a technique that blocks the blood supply to the primary tumor or metastatic foci. This procedure is not available in all clinics and even in all countries, so many people have to travel and undergo chemoembolization abroad. You will find the list of specialized hospitals and current prices for chemoembolization for liver cancer on the Booking Health website.

How the Procedure is Carried Out

Chemoembolization is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a catheter through the groin vessels and moving it up to the affected liver region. The catheter is then used to deliver a high dose of chemotherapy directly to the tumor.

After that tiny particles, called emboli, are delivered to the blood vessels that supply the liver. The emboli can be made of various materials, including synthetic materials, gelatin sponge particles, or drug-eluting beads. They block the blood supply to the malignant cells. The chemotherapy kills the cancer cells, while the embolization cuts off their blood supply, preventing them from growing and spreading.

Chemoembolization is usually carried out under local anesthesia, and patients can go home the same day. This liver cancer therapy takes about an hour to complete, and patients can typically return to their everyday activities within a few days.

Chemoembolization Side Effects

Like any medical intervention, this liver cancer procedure has some side effects. The most common of them include mild pain at the site of catheter introduction, fever, and nausea. Some patients may also experience fatigue, loss of appetite, and abdominal discomfort.

While these side effects are usually mild and short-lived, there is a risk of more serious complications, such as infection, or bleeding. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of chemoembolization with a liver cancer specialist before undergoing treatment.

Chemoembolization Cost

The cost of chemoembolization for liver cancer can vary depending on several factors, such as the location of the clinic, the experience of the doctor, and the severity of the cancer. In the United States, the cost of chemoembolization can range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the location.

Germany is one of the most popular destinations for cancer therapy abroad, as German hospitals combine high quality of treatment with reasonable prices: chemoembolization cost there starts from €8,100.

Benefits of Cancer Treatment Abroad

Treatment abroad can offer several benefits, including:

• Lower costs. Treatment abroad can be significantly cheaper than in your native country, which is important for self-payers.
• Access to top-quality care. Many foreign hospitals and clinics offer world-class facilities and state-of-the-art equipment.
• Reduced wait times, not being on a long waiting list.
• Opportunity to combine treatment with a vacation.

Finding a Specialist in the Field

If you are considering chemoembolization for liver cancer, it is important to find a specialist who has experience with the procedure. You can start by asking your doctor for a referral or searching online for liver cancer specialists.

Seeking treatment abroad can be an attractive option, offering lower costs, top-quality care, and reduced wait times. If you are considering this treatment, be sure to consult with a specialist and consider using the medical tourism company Booking Health to help you navigate the process.

Booking Health is the certified medical tourism provider that can help you find a specialist and book your treatment abroad. Booking Health offers a wide range of services, including:

• Assistance with finding a hospital and specialist
• Making a fast appointment
• Booking travel and accommodation
• Organizing airport transfers
• Translation services
• Support of a personal medical coordinator 24/7