Chemoembolization

Stan went to the hospital for his chemoembolization today (4/15/2010). The plan was to find the arteries feeding the tumor, put chemo into them and cut off the blood supply to the tumor. Tumors in the liver are usually fed by the arteries. Since they only supply the liver with about 10% of it's blood supply, the arteries can be cut off without damaging the liver. The liver gets almost all of its blood from veins, not arteries. After mapping the arteries they were unable to find any arteries feeding the tumor, so they were unable to do the procedure. This particular tumor must be absorbing blood and nutrition from adjacent areas, rather than through blood vessels. The doctor said that after viewing Stan's CT scan, it looks like about 55-60% of his liver is still functioning. We are so grateful for all of your love and prays. The Lord has blessed us with peace as we move forward.