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The following treatments are still being evaluated as part of research trials|. Your cancer specialist will be able to discuss with you whether one of them may be helpful in your situation, and they can refer you to a hospital that carries out these treatments.
A new treatment called selective internal radiotherapy (SIRT)| is being reviewed by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)| for treating liver tumours that can’t be removed with surgery.
This treatment may be possible if you can’t have surgery|.
A device called a cryoprobe is inserted into the centre of the tumour. Liquid nitrogen is then passed through the probe.
This freezes the surrounding area and destroys the cancer cells. The treatment may be done during an operation or a laparoscopy.
Cryotherapy can be painful, so you can be given painkillers if you need them. Some people also develop a fever. Let your doctor know if you notice any side effects.
This uses a technique that directs radiation from many different angles. This means the dose going to the tumour is very high and the dose affecting surrounding healthy tissue is very low.
This treatment is only available in a few specialist hospitals.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.