Chemoembolization

PREOP

• All patients will be seen in clinic
• Need labs: CBC, Chem comp, INR
• If HCC: needs AFP
• If Colon Cancer: Needs CEA
• Need CT/MRI within 30days of procedure
• NEED TO SEND FORMS TO PHARMACY
• HCC – doxorrubin 75mg - 100-300micron (2 vials)
• Colon Cancer -  Irinotecan 100mg - 100-300micron (2 vials)

SCHEDULING

• Will need preop authorization from insurance
• Patients will stay overnight

ANTICOAGULATION/ANTIPLATELETS

• Aspirin or Plavix- Stop 7 days before biopsy
• Lovenox, Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH), Arixtra – Stop 24h prior to procedure
• Pradaxa – stop 3 days prior to procedure if possible.  See “Warfarin” immediately below for “bridge” anticoagulation, if necessary (CONTACT IR physician if uncertain)
• Warfarin (Coumadin) – Depends upon procedure and indication, as well as the reason the patient is taking this medication (CONTACT IR physician or PA)

PRESCRIPTIONS (give to patient in prep consult)

• Norco 5/325mg take one tablet po q4h prn pain
• Colace 250mg po daily – for at least 3 days. Continue while taking narcotics
• Zofran sublingual 4mg po q8h prn for nauseA

​LOCATION OF THE PROCEDURE

• Cath lab

FOLLOW UP

• Phone call (1-2 days)
• 1-2 wks Clinic visit: to follow up symptoms
• 6wks follow up with imaging (CT or MRI with contrast)
• 3mo followup with imaging (CT or MRI with contrast)​

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