Hepatic Artery Infusion Therapy
An implanted pump delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver, helping target cancer with higher drug concentrations while limiting exposure to the rest of the body.
Targeted Chemotherapy Delivered Directly to the Liver
Hepatic artery infusion (HAI) therapy is an FDA-approved treatment for certain liver cancers, including:
- Colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver (colorectal liver metastases, or CRLM)
- Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC)
Unlike traditional chemotherapy that travels throughout the body, HAI therapy delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver through an implanted pump. This targeted approach allows your care team to administer higher concentrations of medication directly to liver tumors while reducing exposure to other organs.
HAI therapy is a highly specialized treatment available at a limited number of cancer centers nationwide. At Vanderbilt-Ingram, patients are cared for by a multidisciplinary team of surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, nurses and other specialists who work together to develop a personalized treatment plan focused on achieving the best possible outcomes.
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Benefits of Hepatic Artery Infusion Therapy
Targeted Delivery of Chemotherapy to Liver Tumors
Treatment is focused where the cancer is located, allowing medication to reach the tumor more effectively.
Higher Doses of Chemotherapy
Because the chemotherapy is primarily delivered to the liver, higher doses can often be used while limiting exposure to the rest of the body.
May Reduce Tumor Burdens
For some patients, HAI therapy may provide a reduction in tumor burden for some unresectable liver tumors. In studies, HAI therapy in combination with systemic chemotherapy has demonstrated a reduction in liver tumor burden, enabling previously unresectable liver tumors to be successfully removed.
Compliments a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
HAI therapy may be used alongside surgery, systemic chemotherapy, and other liver-directed therapies as part of a personalized treatment approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hepatic artery infusion HAI therapy?
Hepatic artery infusion (HAI) therapy is a treatment that delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver through a small implanted pump. By sending medication directly to liver tumors, HAI therapy can provide higher concentrations of chemotherapy where it is needed most while limiting exposure to the rest of the body.
What cancers can be treated with HAI therapy?
HAI therapy is primarily used to treat colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver (colorectal liver metastases) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Your care team will evaluate your diagnosis, imaging and overall health to determine whether this treatment may be appropriate for you.
How is the pump implanted?
The pump is surgically placed beneath the skin of the abdomen and connected to the hepatic artery, which supplies blood to the liver. The procedure is performed by a specialized surgical team, and most patients are able to begin treatment two to four weeks after surgery.
Will I still need systemic chemotherapy?
Many patients receive HAI therapy in combination with systemic chemotherapy. This approach allows treatment to target cancer in the liver while also addressing cancer cells that may be present elsewhere in the body. Your treatment plan will be personalized to your specific needs.
What side effects can I expect?
Because HAI therapy delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver, some side effects may differ from those associated with traditional chemotherapy. Your team will closely monitor your liver function and overall health throughout treatment and discuss potential risks and side effects with you before therapy begins.
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