What is a potential complication associated with SIRT?

Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT), also known as radioembolization, involves injecting radioactive microspheres into the blood supply of a tumor, most commonly in cases of unresectable liver cancer. One potential complication associated with this procedure is radiation pneumonia.

This condition can occur if the radioactive microspheres inadvertently leak into the pulmonary circulation, leading to radiation exposure in the lung tissue. The radiation can cause inflammatory reactions and potential damage to lung parenchyma, resulting in pneumonia that is induced by radiation exposure. This is a notable risk, particularly when considering the anatomy and the possibility of arteriovenous shunting or if there's an anatomical variation that facilitates the delivery of particles to the lungs instead of the intended hepatic vasculature.

Recognizing the risk of radiation pneumonia is crucial for clinicians performing or overseeing SIRT procedures, as it emphasizes the need for careful planning, pre-procedural imaging, and potential patient selection strategies to minimize complications associated with the treatment. The prevention of unintended lung involvement reduces the likelihood of this serious complication and contributes to improved patient outcomes.