Transarterial Chemoembolization in Treatment of Inoperable Patients with Nodular Cholangiocarcinoma

Abstract

Aim. To estimate the efficacy of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in treatment of non-surgical patients with nodular cholangiocarcinoma. Materials and Methods. TACE procedures have been performed in 33 non-surgical patients with cholangiocarcinoma. In 27 (81,8%) patients selective hepatic propria or lobar artery catheterization was apllied, while additional six patients underwent segmental or lobar hepatic arteries microcatheterization. Results. There were no post-TACE mortality or severe morbidity. Twenty eight out of 33 treated patients were available for long-term survival analysis. Eight (28.6%) patients demonstrated partial response, 13 (46.4%) – stabilization and 7 – (25%) progressive disease. 1-, 2- and 3-survival rates were 34.7%, 15.2% and 11.6%, respectively. Two patients are still alive and under observation for 10 and 72 months. Median survival was 9.0 months in the general group and 12.0 months in the gemcitabin + mytomycin C group. Conclusion. TACE is safe and effective procedure in management of non-surgical patients with peripheral cholnagiocarcinoma.