Y-90 radioembolization
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Comparison
Y-90 radioembolization vs TACE for liver cancer
Both treatments are delivered through the liver's arteries by an interventional radiologist. One delivers radiation, the other chemotherapy plus blocked blood flow. Which is better depends on the case.
The short version
In transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), chemotherapy is delivered into the artery that feeds the tumour, and the artery is blocked. In Y-90 radioembolization (also called SIRT), tiny radioactive beads are placed in the same arteries and give radiation from inside the liver.
Both are used for tumours that cannot be removed by surgery. Both are treatments, not cures, and can often be repeated or combined with other care. We have added both to our list recently and are still confirming which Chinese hospitals currently offer them to international patients.
Side by side
| Y-90 radioembolization | TACE | |
|---|---|---|
| What is delivered | Radioactive microspheres (yttrium-90) | Chemotherapy and an embolic agent |
| Planning | A mapping angiogram and simulation first, then treatment about two weeks later | Usually planned from scans, treatment can be repeated |
| Setting | Usually outpatient, about two hours | Often an overnight stay, sometimes more |
| Post-embolization symptoms | Less common | Common: pain, nausea, fever for a few days |
| Radiation precautions | Yes, for about a week | No |
| Repeat treatments | Usually fewer sessions | Often repeated every few months |
| Who may not suit | Poor liver function, unfavourable mapping scan, risk of beads reaching lungs or bowel | Poor liver function, blocked main portal vein, kidney problems, bleeding problems |
| Main risks | Liver injury, ulcers in stomach or bowel, lung effects, infection | Liver failure, infection, bleeding, kidney injury, rare serious complications |
| Typical use | Selected liver cancers, some metastases, sometimes before surgery | Selected liver cancers, often at intermediate stage |
How patients feel afterwards
After TACE, many people have a flu-like reaction for several days, called post-embolization syndrome. RadiologyInfo.org says most go home within 24 to 48 hours, and fatigue may last two weeks or more. It also states that serious complications occur in around 1 in 20 procedures.
After Y-90, most people return to normal activities within days, though tiredness and low appetite can last up to a month. Radiation precautions apply for about a week, such as limiting close contact with children and pregnant women.
How the choice is made
Teams consider liver function, tumour size and number, whether the tumour has grown into blood vessels, and previous treatment. Y-90 may be considered in some cases where TACE is less suitable, such as when the portal vein is involved, and TACE may be preferred in others. Evidence differs by cancer type and is still debated.
A mapping scan for Y-90 can show that beads might travel to the lungs or bowel. If so, the treatment may not be safe.
Practical points for travel
Y-90 needs two visits to the angiography suite, a mapping visit and the treatment. TACE may be repeated. If you need repeat sessions, ask whether they can be done at home, and what records your Canadian team will need.
What to ask a treating team
- Why do you suggest this option over the other?
- How will my liver function be checked before and after?
- How many sessions will I need, and what follows?
- Who manages side effects when I return home?
- Is this treatment available to me without delay, and what is its approval status in Canada?
Neither is the better option for everyone. It depends on the case, and the decision rests with your doctors. Standard care in Canada may also include these procedures, so ask your oncologist as well.
Related
Sources: RadiologyInfo.org, Radioembolization (Y90) · RadiologyInfo.org, Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)
Last reviewed: 12 November 2026. This page is general information, not medical advice.
Sino Health Link is an independent coordination service, not a hospital. We do not diagnose, prescribe or treat. Licensed doctors make all medical recommendations and decisions with you.