yttrium-90 glass microspheres

Yttrium-90 glass microspheres are a radiopharmaceutical device used for selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT), also known as radioembolization, primarily for the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The product consists of insoluble glass beads in which radioactive yttrium-90 is an integral component. These microspheres are delivered via catheter into the hepatic artery supplying the tumor. Once lodged in the tumor’s arteriolar capillaries, they emit localized beta radiation that destroys cancer cells while sparing most healthy liver tissue. The high specific activity per sphere allows effective dosing with fewer particles and minimal embolic effect, preserving vascular patency and enabling subsequent therapies if needed[1][2][3][4][5]. TheraSphere is currently the only FDA-approved Y-90 radioembolization technology for HCC in the United States[6].

Brand names

TheraSphere

Other names

Y-90 glass microspheresY90 glass microspheresY 90 glass microspheresyttrium Y 90 glass microspheres