Chemoembolization of the left inferior phrenic artery in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: radiographic findings and clinical outcome

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiographic findings of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) supplied by the left inferior phrenic artery (LIPA) and the safety and efficacy of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) of the LIPA. From September 2002 until August 2004, 11 patients with LIPA supplying HCC were identified and successfully treated with TACE of all LIPAs. LIPA collateral vessels may supply HCC, particularly when the tumors are in the left lobe of the liver in patients who have undergone previous TACE procedures. In this setting, such collateral vessels should be sought on preprocedural imaging. These LIPA collateral vessels may be safely embolized with very good clinical results.