Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Transarterial Embolization for Early-Stage, Surgically Inoperable HCC

Clinical Background

A 64-year-old female was diagnosed with primary hepatocellular carcinoma. The tumor was classified as BCLC Stage A (early) but was deemed surgically unresectable and inoperable due to the patient’s history of congestive heart failure. With no prior oncologic therapy, the patient was referred for embolization as a liver-directed treatment strategy.

Baseline CT

Pre-HES Embolization Angiogram

Tumor Characteristics

  • Location: Segment VIII
  • Size: 2.1 cm
  • Number of Lesions: Single lesion
  • Feeding Vessel: 1.5 mm diameter

Post-HES Embolization Angiogram with Cast (Arrows)

Intervention Details

  • Approach: Transarterial embolization with Embrace HES via transradial access
  • Embrace Volume: 2.0 mL
  • Procedure Outcome: Successful embolization achieved

30-Day Follow Up CT

30-Day Follow-up Outcome

  • Core Lab reported a Complete Response per mRECIST criteria
  • No revascularization
  • No local tumor progression

90-Day Follow Up CT

90-Day Follow-up Outcome

  • Core Lab reported a Complete Response per mRECIST criteria
  • No revascularization
  • No local tumor progression

Conclusion

This case highlights the use of the Embrace Hydrogel Embolic System to achieve durable local tumor control in an early-stage, surgically inoperable HCC patient. The intervention resulted in a complete response at both 30 and 90 days, with no evidence of revascularization or local progression, and was accomplished without the need for ancillary devices.

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