What is one of the side effects observed in patients undergoing SIRT?

SIRT, or Selective Internal Radiation Therapy, is a targeted treatment primarily used for patients with liver tumors, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma or metastatic cancer to the liver. One of the known side effects of SIRT is gastric ulcerations. This can occur due to the deposition of radioactive microspheres in the gastrointestinal tract, which may lead to tissue irritation and damage.

During the procedure, it's crucial to ensure that the particles are delivered strictly to the hepatic arteries, minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues, including the stomach and intestines. However, even with precise targeting, some radioactive microspheres may inadvertently migrate or be delivered to adjacent structures, potentially leading to localized inflammation and ulceration.

While chronic pain, liver dysfunction, and muscle spasms can be concerns in patients undergoing various treatments, they are not as directly associated with SIRT as gastric ulcerations. The risk of ulcerations is notably heightened during the pre-treatment evaluation and planning phase, emphasizing the importance of meticulous planning in interventional radiology procedures. Understanding this risk helps healthcare professionals monitor and manage potential complications effectively.