Procedure Guides

TACE — Transarterial Chemoembolization

A minimally invasive procedure that delivers chemotherapy directly into the tumor through its blood supply, then blocks that blood supply to starve the tumor.

Y-90 Radioembolization (TARE / SIRT)

Tiny radioactive beads (yttrium-90 microspheres) are delivered through a catheter directly to the tumor, delivering internal radiation from inside the tumor over several weeks.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

A needle probe delivers heat generated by radiofrequency energy directly into a small tumor, destroying it. Best for tumors under 3 cm.

Microwave Ablation (MWA)

Similar to RFA but uses microwave energy to generate heat, creating larger and faster ablation zones. Less affected by blood vessels near the tumor.

Atezolizumab + Bevacizumab (Tecentriq + Avastin)

The preferred first-line systemic treatment for advanced HCC. Combines an immunotherapy drug (atezolizumab) with an anti-angiogenic drug (bevacizumab) given as IV infusions every 3 weeks.

Lenvatinib (Lenvima)

An oral targeted therapy (tyrosine kinase inhibitor) taken as daily pills. Used as first-line treatment for advanced HCC when immunotherapy is not suitable.

Sorafenib (Nexavar)

The first approved systemic therapy for advanced HCC. An oral targeted therapy (tyrosine kinase inhibitor) now used mainly when immunotherapy is not an option, or after progression.

Contrast-Enhanced CT of the Liver

A specialized CT scan using IV contrast dye that takes images at multiple timed phases to characterize liver tumors. The standard test for diagnosing and staging HCC.

MRI of the Liver (LI-RADS Protocol)

A detailed MRI using liver-specific contrast agents. Often more sensitive than CT for detecting and characterizing small liver tumors. Used for surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring.

Liver Biopsy

A needle procedure to take a small tissue sample from the liver for laboratory analysis. Often not needed to diagnose HCC when imaging shows the classic appearance, but used when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Hepatic Resection (Liver Surgery)

Surgical removal of the tumor and surrounding liver tissue. The most effective curative option for eligible patients — typically those with a single tumor and well-preserved liver function (no or compensated cirrhosis).

Liver Transplant Evaluation

An assessment to determine whether you are eligible for a liver transplant, which can cure both the HCC and the underlying cirrhosis. Based on Milan or UCSF criteria for tumor size and number.