Y90 Treatment for Liver Cancer

Y90 is a form of Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT) that uses tiny radioactive beads, known as microspheres, to deliver high-dose radiation directly into liver tumors. This procedure is guided by imaging and performed by an interventional radiologist, ensuring precision and effectiveness.

How Does It Work?

1. Catheter Placement: A small catheter is inserted through the groin and guided into the liver’s blood vessels.
2. Targeted Delivery: Millions of microscopic radioactive beads containing Yttrium-90 are released into the tumor’s blood supply.
3. Localized Radiation: The radiation works from within, destroying cancer cells over weeks while preserving healthy liver tissue.
4. Natural Clearance: Over time, the body naturally eliminates the microspheres.

Who is a Candidate for Y90?

Y90 may be an option for patients with:

• Primary liver cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma – HCC)
• Metastatic liver tumors (such as colorectal cancer spread to the liver)
• Unresectable liver cancer (not eligible for surgery)
• Patients waiting for liver transplantation to reduce tumor size

Benefits of Y90 Radioembolization

✅ Minimally invasive – No large incisions, performed via a catheter
✅ Targeted treatment – Reduces exposure to surrounding healthy tissue
✅ Outpatient or short hospital stay – Faster recovery compared to surgery
✅ Effective tumor control – Can shrink tumors, slow progression, or provide symptom relief

What to Expect

• Pre-Treatment Planning: Imaging tests and a mapping angiogram to assess liver circulation.
• Procedure: Usually takes 1–2 hours; performed under local anesthesia and sedation.
• Recovery: Most patients return home the same day with mild fatigue for a few days.
• Follow-up: Imaging studies track the tumor’s response to treatment.

Why Choose Dr. Fabio Kolmos for Y90 Treatment?

Dr. Fabio Kolmos is a leading interventional radiologist with extensive experience in minimally invasive liver cancer treatments. As the Medical Director of Interventional Radiology at Palo Alto Medical Foundation, he specializes in image-guided therapies that improve patient outcomes with fewer complications and shorter recovery times.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or a loved one has liver cancer and are seeking advanced, minimally invasive treatment options, contact Dr. Fabio Kolmos today to see if Y90 Radioembolization is right for you.