Digestive Disease Interventions 2021; 05(02): 153-161
DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1723805
Review Article

Holmium-166 Radioembolization

Marnix G. E. H. Lam
1   Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
,
Maarten L. J. Smits
1   Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
,
Rutger C. G. Bruijnen
1   Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
,
Bart de Keizer
1   Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
,
Arthur J. A. T. Braat
1   Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
› Author Affiliations

Abstract

Radioembolization is usually performed with microspheres containing yttrium-90 (90Y). Holmium-166 (166Ho)-microspheres were developed as an alternative new product for radioembolization. The unique characteristics of 166Ho-microspheres allow for improved imaging possibilities. They can be visualized and quantified, already at low numbers and activities, to predict treatment distribution using 166Ho-microspheres at scout quantity during pre-treatment simulation. The option to reliably predict the distribution of microspheres provides physicians control over the treatment, allowing them to select and treat patients with a personalized treatment plan. Safety and efficacy were established in several clinical studies. 166Ho-microspheres radioembolization aims to optimize individualized treatment planning in order to improve treatment outcomes.



Publication History

Received: 03 December 2020

Accepted: 22 December 2020

Article published online:
15 April 2021

© 2021. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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