Tumor & Vascular Treatment
Transarterial Chemoembolization
Minimally invasive chemo + arterial blockage—treatment for unresectable liver lesions
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What Is Transarterial Chemoembolization?
TACE is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment for liver tumors. A catheter is inserted—usually via the groin—into the hepatic artery. Chemotherapy and tiny embolic particles are delivered directly into the tumor’s blood supply, blocking it and concentrating cancer-fighting medication in the tumor.
Who Is It For?
Ideal for patients with:
- Unresectable primary or metastatic liver tumors
- Tumors unsuitable for surgical removal or ablation
- Tumors >5 cm in size or awaiting transplant or ablation
Key Benefits
Focused chemo + blockage increases drug concentration in tumor
Minimally invasive with shorter recovery vs systemic chemo
Preserves most liver function, repeatable, and may delay progression
Common Uses
Hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer)Metastatic liver tumors (colon, neuroendocrine, etc.)Bridging therapy for transplant candidates
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Local
Anesthesia
Outpatient
Setting
Same day
Recovery
Clinic Hours
Weekly Schedule
Monday
1:00 – 5:00 PMFe del Mundo Medical Center
Tuesday
2:00 – 5:00 PMOlistico Health Manila
Wednesday
12:00 NN – 2:00 PMSan Juan de Dios Hospital
Thursday
9:00 AM – 12:00 NNPhilippine General Hospital
Friday
12:00 NN – 2:00 PMSan Juan de Dios Hospital
Saturday
10:00 AM – 12:00 NNPhilippine General Hospital
3:00 – 4:00 PMOlistico Health Manila
Strictly by Appointment · No Walk-ins
Primary clinic
Olistico Health Manila
Unit 404, West East Center, 1332-1336 Taft Ave, Ermita, Manila
FAQs: TACE
How should I prepare for a transarterial chemoembolization?
You’ll likely be asked to stop eating or drinking by midnight before your procedure. Let Dr. Apo know about any medications you’re taking, especially blood thinners. You might also need some basic blood tests beforehand.
What happens during the procedure?
Transarterial Chemoembolization is done while you’re awake but sedated—so you’ll be relaxed and won’t feel pain. A small tube (catheter) is inserted through a blood vessel in your groin and guided to the liver. Then, chemotherapy and tiny particles are sent directly into the blood vessels feeding the tumor. This helps block the blood supply and keeps the medicine focused on the tumor.
How long will I be in the hospital, and what will recovery be like?
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 days after the procedure. You might feel tired, have a low-grade fever, or some mild pain or nausea for a few days. That’s normal—it’s called “post-embolization syndrome.” Most people can go back to their usual routine in about a week.