TACE for HCC: A critical review of the 2021 CIRSE recommendations with presentation of a technique for a degradable starch microsphere—TACE

Abstract

There is no consensus on which substances and which method should be used for transarterial chemoembolization. A publication commissioned by CIRSE 2021 attempted to formulate recommendations. However, only the spectrum of currently implemented procedures is outlined but no recommendation was made. In this article, therefore, basic considerations regarding the technique of chemoembolization are presented, and the authors discuss fundamental considerations about the embolic materials used, the cytostatic drugs and their dosage, as well as about pain therapy during treatment. Then, a technique is presented which used degradable starch microspheres as an embolic agent. This technique enables multiple treatments over a longer period. However, this proposal is not only evidence-based but also eminence-based. What we need are controlled studies that systematically compare different treatment techniques in a sufficient number of patients. This will hopefully help to find the best method for individual patients. Until then, the technique proposed by the authors can be applied.