Hepatocellular carcinoma treated by transcatheter arterial embolization: progress evaluated by computed tomography.

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Abstract
Computed tomography (CT) was performed after 65 transcatheter arterial embolizations (TAE) [using gelatin sponge combined with mitomycin C] in 50 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Non-enhanced high-density areas were seen in the tumors within 3 days in 17/25 cases (though they soon disappeared) and low-density areas within 2 wk in 62/65. Gas bubbles were seen in these areas within 2 wk in 60% of embolizations. Within 3-6 mo. after the 1st TAE, enhanced lesions developed around or inside the low-density areas in 15/22 patients. Complications appearing within 2 wk included non-enhanced low-density areas in the liver and spleen, gallbladder thickening, swelling of the head of the pancreas, contrast retention in the kidneys and gallbladder, ascites and pleural effusion.