Verified By November 12, 2024
Understanding the Role of Radiation Therapy in Liver Cancer: An Overview
Liver cancer, primarily hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the most common type of primary
liver cancer, accounting for approximately 80% of cases. It is a life-threatening condition
often diagnosed at advanced stages. While surgical resection and liver transplantation are
preferred treatments for early-stage HCC, radiation therapy has emerged as an integral
component of multimodal management. Traditionally, the liver’s sensitivity to radiation
limited its application. However, modern advances in radiation oncology now offer precise,
safe, and effective solutions. This blog explores the role of radiation therapy in liver cancer
and highlights how recent technological developments are transforming patient outcomes.
How is radiation therapy used to treat liver cancer?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays (or particles) to destroy cancer cells by damaging
their DNA, preventing them from growing and dividing. While surgery and liver
transplantation remain the most definitive treatments, not all patients qualify for these
interventions. This is where radiation therapy steps in—as an option to control tumors,
shrink them before surgery, or relieve symptoms for patients with advanced-stage disease.
There are two primary forms of radiation therapy used for liver cancer:
When is Radiation Therapy Recommended?
Advancements in Radiation Therapy for Liver Cancer
The field of radiation oncology has made remarkable strides in recent years. Technology-driven innovations allow oncologists to deliver radiation with greater accuracy, improving treatment outcomes and reducing side effects. Here are some key advancements:
1. Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) with Linear Accelerators (LINACs):
Linac bases SBRT employs high-energy X-rays or photon beams to deliver high dose to the tumor. It is achieved by creating multiple beam angles that converge on the tumor, delivering a concentrated dose while sparing surrounding healthy tissues. Advanced techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) and Motion management techniques like Deep inspiratory breath hold (DIBH) or 4D CT are often integrated to increase precision and reduce exposure to healthy tissue.
Advantages:
2. Proton Beam Therapy:
Proton therapy uses protons instead of X-rays, limiting radiation exposure to surrounding tissues. The unique property of protons, known as the ‘Bragg peak,’ allows it to deposit most of the energy directly at the tumor site. Additionally, proton beams have a ‘no-exit’ dose, which results in better sparing of normal liver tissue and reduces the risk of radiation-induced liver toxicity—a crucial factor for patients with underlying liver disease or cirrhosis.
Advantages: