Drug-loaded microsphere embolisation is a minimally invasive interventional therapy that involves the highly selective delivery of non-biodegradable microspheres, pre-loaded with chemotherapeutic agents, via the artery to the tumour-feeding arteries. Whilst the microspheres mechanically occlude microvessels in the tumour region, causing ischaemic necrosis, they simultaneously release the chemotherapeutic agent slowly and continuously at the local site. This maintains high drug concentrations within the tumour tissue over an extended period, whilst keeping peripheral blood drug concentrations at extremely low levels, thereby achieving the dual synergistic effect of ‘embolisation combined with sustained-release chemotherapy’.
Sustained drug release covering the proliferation cycle: The drug-loaded microspheres enable sustained local release over several weeks, providing prolonged destruction of tumour cells.
Significantly reduced systemic toxic side effects: As very little of the drug enters the systemic circulation, the severe bone marrow suppression and organ damage associated with conventional chemotherapy are avoided.
Standardised particle size and proven efficacy: The microspheres have a uniform particle size and predictable drug-loading capacity, and their advantages in the treatment of liver cancer have been confirmed by multiple clinical studies.
Primarily used for the interventional treatment of well-vascularised tumours, such as mid- to late-stage primary liver cancer and liver metastases from colorectal cancer. It is often combined with ablation, targeted therapy and immunotherapy to improve local control rates and prolong patient survival.
