Peripheral hepatic artery embolization in rabbits with VX2 carcinomas of the liver.

The effect of peripheral hepatic artery embolization was investigated in 44 rabbits with VX2 carcinomas of the liver. Embolization of the proper hepatic artery with a 175-mu polystyrene microsphere suspension (dose, 1350 or 2700 particles per rabbit) did not significantly change the survival rate as compared to controls, but did seem to delay extrahepatic tumor spread. Histologic examination suggested that partial tumor necrosis, at best, resulted from the peripheral hepatic artery embolization. It is concluded that the failure to successfully treat hepatic malignancies by means of peripheral hepatic arterial embolization and a permanent occlusive agent is due to arterial revascularization of the liver through vascular proliferation and recanalization of occluded arteries.