Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) or radioembolization involves the administration of radioactive microspheres into the blood stream to target tumors in the liver. This is usually achieved by using a radioactive compound, Yttrium-90, embedded into the microsphere particles, which are preferentially deposited into tumors as the particles flow through the blood of the liver. Liver tumors that are treated with radioembolization including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), colorectal cancers that have metastasized to the liver, and neuroendocrine tumors.

SIR-Spheres is one such agent used in the treatment of patients with cancer in the liver. Learn more about SIR-Spheres.

Prior to the administration of microsphere therapy, you will meet with an interventional oncologist and radiation oncologist to discuss if you are a candidate for the treatment, what other tests or scans you may need prior to the therapy and what the risks and benefits of the treatment may be