Overview

Y-90 Radioembolization, also called Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE), is an advanced, image-guided procedure used to treat select liver tumors.

Rather than delivering radiation from outside the body, Y-90 uses tiny radioactive microspheres delivered through the arteries that supply the tumor.

The result: targeted radiation concentrated in the liver tumor while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

How Y-90 Works

Using advanced imaging guidance:

1. A mapping procedure is performed to understand the liver’s blood supply
2. Imaging and planning confirm whether Y-90 can be delivered safely
3. A catheter is guided into the arteries supplying the tumor
4. Y-90 microspheres are delivered into the tumor’s blood supply
5. The radiation acts locally over time to treat the tumor

Y-90 treatment is precise, targeted, and planned carefully based on each patient’s anatomy and disease pattern.

Benefits of Y-90

For appropriate patients, Y-90 offers:

• Targeted treatment delivered directly to liver tumors
• Minimally invasive catheter-based approach
• Ability to integrate with systemic cancer therapy in select cases
• Potential local control of liver-dominant disease
• No traditional open surgery

Y-90 may be used as part of a broader cancer treatment strategy developed with the patient’s oncology team.

What to Expect

Before the procedure:

• Imaging and clinical evaluation
• Review of liver function and overall treatment goals
• Mapping angiography to assess anatomy and safety
• Coordination with oncology and referring physicians

During the procedure:

• Catheter-based treatment through a small access site
• Advanced imaging used to guide treatment
• Y-90 microspheres delivered to targeted liver arteries
• Typically performed with sedation

After the procedure:

• Same-day discharge or observation depending on the case
• Fatigue, nausea, abdominal discomfort, or low-grade fever may occur temporarily
• Follow-up imaging is used to assess response over time

Recovery Timeline

• Many patients resume light activity within a few days
• Temporary fatigue is common
• Symptom and imaging response are monitored over weeks to months
• Ongoing care continues with the oncology team

Who is a Good Candidate

Y-90 may be appropriate for patients who:

• Have primary liver cancer or liver-dominant metastatic disease
• Are not ideal candidates for surgery
• Need local tumor control as part of a broader treatment plan
• Have adequate liver function
• Have vascular anatomy suitable for safe treatment

A mapping procedure and multidisciplinary review are typically required before treatment.

Clinical Considerations

Y-90 is performed by interventional radiologists with specialized training in liver-directed therapies.

Not all liver tumors are appropriate for Y-90. Treatment depends on tumor type, tumor location, liver function, vascular anatomy, prior therapies, and overall cancer treatment goals. ELMNT IR works closely with referring providers to support appropriate patient selection and coordinated care. Treatment recommendations are developed in coordination with your oncology team and are designed to complement—not replace—comprehensive cancer care.

How Y-90 Compares to Other Treatments

Y-90 is one of several liver-directed treatment options. Unlike external beam radiation or systemic therapy alone, Y-90 delivers radiation through the tumor’s blood supply.