Chemoembolization Treatment in Mountain View, CA

Chemoembolization is performed by an interventional radiologist using real-time imaging for precision. The process involves:

1. Catheter Placement – A tiny catheter is inserted through a blood vessel, typically in the groin, and guided into the hepatic artery that feeds the tumor.
2. Chemotherapy Infusion – A high concentration of chemotherapy is delivered directly to the tumor site.
3. Embolization – Tiny particles are injected to block the tumor’s blood supply, trapping the chemotherapy inside and cutting off nutrients the tumor needs to grow.
4. Targeted Tumor Destruction – The combination of high-dose localized chemotherapy and blood supply blockage leads to tumor shrinkage and cell death.

This procedure spares healthy liver tissue, reducing systemic side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.

Benefits of Chemoembolization

✅ Targeted Tumor Therapy – Direct chemotherapy infusion for maximum impact
✅ Minimized Side Effects – Limits exposure to the rest of the body
✅ Improved Survival Rates – Helps control tumor growth for extended periods
✅ Minimally Invasive – Performed through a tiny incision with faster recovery
✅ Outpatient or Short Hospital Stay – Most patients go home the same day or within 24 hours

Who is a Candidate?

Chemoembolization is most commonly used for primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC) and metastatic tumors that have spread to the liver. It is an ideal option for:

• Patients who are not candidates for surgery
• Those with tumors confined to the liver
• Patients awaiting liver transplant
• Those looking to slow tumor progression and manage symptoms

Your doctor will evaluate your overall health and liver function to determine if this treatment is right for you.

What to Expect

Before the Procedure
You’ll undergo imaging scans and blood tests to ensure you’re a good candidate. Light sedation and a local anesthetic will be used to keep you comfortable.

During the Procedure
The interventional radiologist navigates a catheter through your blood vessels to precisely deliver treatment. The process takes about 90 minutes.

After the Procedure
Most patients resume normal activities in a few days. You may experience mild flu-like symptoms for a short period. Follow-up imaging will be scheduled to monitor tumor response.

Why Choose Dr. Fabio Kolmos?

Dr. Fabio Kolmos is a leading interventional radiologist with extensive experience in minimally invasive cancer treatments. As Medical Director of Interventional Radiology at Palo Alto Medical Foundation, he has helped pioneer cutting-edge therapies that maximize patient outcomes with minimal downtime. His expertise in chemoembolization, Y90 therapy, and tumor ablations makes him a trusted specialist for patients seeking advanced, evidence-based cancer treatments.

Take the Next Step

If you or a loved one is facing liver cancer, chemoembolization may be the right option. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Fabio Kolmos to explore your personalized treatment plan.