Comparative study on the effects of hepatic arterial embolization with Bletilla striata or Gelfoam in treatment of primary hepatic carcinoma

AIM: To study the safety and efficacy of hepatic arterial embolization (HAE) with Bletilla striata powders containing traditional Chinese herbs in the treatment of primary hepatic carcinoma (PHC). METHODS: From May 1990 to September 1993, 106 patients with PHC were treated by HAE with different types of Bletilla striata powders (n = 56) or Gelfoam powders (n = 50) under clearly specified conditions. We analyzed the effects and complications associated with these two types of treatment. RESULTS: The Bletilla striata powders produced extensive and permanent proximal embolization of the hepatic artery, and stimulated the formation of collateral circulation. Treatment could be stopped for as long as 6-12 mo, and there was obvious evidence of tumor necrosis and shrinkage. The patient survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were 81.9%, 44.9%, and 33.6%, respectively, and the mean survival time without a serious complication was 19.8 mo. Patients in the Bletilla striata group displayed better clinical effects from their treatment when compared with patients in the Gelfoam group. CONCLUSION: Bletilla striata powders are superior to Gelfoam powders when used for angioembolus in patients with hepatic carcinoma.