To evaluate the safety and clinical short-term efficacy of interventional embolization with CalliSpheres-loaded microspheres in treating advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

A total of 25 patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma underwent transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus using CalliSpheres-loaded microspheres treatment. The clinical and imaging data, complications of interventional treatment and prognosis were summarized and analyzed by modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST); follow-up was performed on all patients.

The follow-up lasted 6 months. According to mRECIST, the 3-month objective response rate (CR+PR) was 80% and disease control rate (CR+PR+SD) was 88%; the 6-month objective response rate (CR+PR) was 72% and disease control rate (CR+PR+SD) was 80%. At day 3 after the procedure, the levels of ALT, AST and TBIL were increased, with a statistical significance compared with those before the operation. However, there was no significant difference in the level of albumin. At 3 months postoperatively, the indications of liver function returned to the normal level. And there was no significant difference between pre- and post-operation. No severe complications, such as bile leak with infection, liver abscess, abdominal hemorrhage, bleeding due to tumor rupture and gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in these patients.

TACE performed with CalliSpheres-loaded microspheres is a novel and safe option for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Its clinical short-term efficacy was satisfied, yet its long-term efficacy needs further studies.