Sometimes it is theoretically possible to operate on a certain tumor, but the amount of normal liver tissue that remains behind would be insufficient. In some patients in whom the residual function would be insufficient, there is the possibility of 'Vena Portae Embolization'. The Vena Portae (or portal vein) is the vein that connects the digestive organs to the liver. This vein carries nutrient-rich blood to the liver.
With Vena Portae Embolization, part of the blood flow in the liver is closed, whereby the blood vessel is closed with, for example, glue. This closing is also called 'embolization'. As a result, the other part of the liver that is still well supplied with blood has to work harder. This causes this piece of liver to grow. The ultimate goal is for this to become so large that sufficient liver tissue is created to make surgery possible in the second instance.
Vena Portae Embolization takes place by puncturing the portal vein from the outside (percutaneous = through the skin). This is done under local anaesthetic. This is then embolized. After about three weeks, a new CT scan is made to assess whether the effect is sufficient to allow the possible operation to continue. The portal vein embolization is performed by the radiologist.