Selective intraarterial chemotherapy of tumors in the lingual artery territory by a new approach.

Selective intraarterial neoadjuvant chemotherapy of carcinoma in the region of the lingual artery was performed in 23 patients (bilaterally in 4 patients). The superficial temporal artery (STA) was surgically exposed and a preshaped infusion catheter was inserted. The catheter tip was maneuvered through the STA into the lingual artery under fluoroscopic guidance. Two combinations of cytostatic agents were then continually infused through the catheter for 5-9 days. Treatment response was observed in 16 patients, 9 of whom showed a complete response. The combination of cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil was found most effective. The catheter became dislocated six times among 27 catheterizations and in each instance the position could be corrected. No major complications were encountered. We conclude that selective infusion technique is safer than previously reported semiselective infusions techniques.