Tumor-feeding hepatic arterial vasculature (TACE)

The tumor-feeding hepatic arterial vasculature refers to the specific branches of the hepatic artery that provide the primary blood supply to malignant liver tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). While healthy liver tissue receives approximately 75% of its blood supply from the portal vein, hypervascular tumors are almost entirely dependent on the hepatic artery for oxygen and nutrients (StatPearls, 2023). This physiological distinction is the basis for Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE), where therapeutic agents are delivered directly into these feeding vessels. The procedure involves the administration of a chemotherapeutic agent, often emulsified in ethiodized oil, followed by embolic materials to obstruct the blood flow (National Cancer Institute, 2024). This dual mechanism results in high local concentrations of the drug and prolonged exposure due to reduced washout, while simultaneously inducing ischemic necrosis of the tumor (Raoul et al., 2011). TACE is a standard-of-care treatment for patients with intermediate-stage HCC who are not candidates for surgery or ablation (Lencioni, 2010). The effectiveness of targeting these vessels is monitored through imaging and serum biomarkers like alpha-fetoprotein. However, the procedure carries risks such as post-embolization syndrome and potential damage to non-target liver tissue.

Other names

Tumor-feeding vesselsHepatic tumor neovasculatureHepatic artery branches

Induction of tumor ischemia and necrosis through arterial embolization combined with localized delivery of high-dose chemotherapy.