hepatic arterial infusion
Also written as: HAI — Hepatic Arterial Infusion
Chemotherapy delivery method targeting liver tumors through direct arterial catheter placement for regional treatment.
Full Definition
Hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) is a regional chemotherapy delivery technique that utilizes the liver's unique dual blood supply to maximize drug concentration to hepatic tumors while minimizing systemic toxicity. The procedure involves surgical or percutaneous placement of a catheter into the hepatic artery, often with implantation of a subcutaneous infusion port. Chemotherapeutic agents are delivered directly to the liver, taking advantage of the fact that liver metastases derive their blood supply primarily from the hepatic artery while normal liver parenchyma receives blood from both arterial and portal systems. This approach is particularly useful for colorectal liver metastases and primary hepatic malignancies when systemic therapy alone is insufficient.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as HAI; distinguish from other liver-directed therapies such as TACE or Y90 radioembolization.
In Context
- "Hepatic arterial infusion was considered for unresectable colorectal liver metastases confined to the liver." — Treatment planning note
- "The patient underwent placement of a hepatic arterial infusion pump for regional chemotherapy delivery." — Procedure report