This thesis investigates which parameters influence the distribution of holmium microspheres during transarterial radioembolization (TARE), a treatment for liver tumors. Experiments using 3D-printed models and porcine livers show that catheter position, angle, movement, injection technique, and hepatic arterial blood flow rate affect how microspheres mix with the bloodstream. Injection technique is particularly clinically relevant and adjustable: a high, continuous injection rate leads to a uniform distribution, while a low rate allows for more targeted delivery. The study highlights the importance of clear guidelines for injection profiles and increased awareness that contrast scans and scout doses may have limited predictive value due to variations in injection technique. Although tumor models were not included, the findings provide valuable input for future computational models that can predict microsphere distribution and support patient specific treatment planning. Future research should focus on validating these findings in patients.
Tess Snoeijink (1996) studied Technical Medicine at the University of Twente, specializing in Medical Imaging and Intervention. She conducted PhD research at the Department of Medical Imaging, focusing on optimizing transarterial radioembolization, a treatment for liver cancer. Tess now works as a Product Owner at ScreenPoint Medical in Nijmegen, a MedTech company developing AI tools for breast cancer detection.