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Percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP) is a minimally invasive treatment that delivers high-dose chemotherapy directly to metastatic melanoma in the liver. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, in which medications circulate throughout the entire body, PHP specifically targets the liver only, which can help reduce the side effects commonly associated with chemo. This approach allows oncologists to treat tumors with much higher doses of chemotherapy than would otherwise be possible when given systemically (through the peripheral veins).

At Moffit Cancer Center, percutaneous hepatic perfusion is offered to treat melanoma that has spread to the liver (as often occurs with ocular melanomas), and select other tumors metastatic to the liver. Prior to recommending this therapy to a patient, our oncologists and interventional radiologists will assess a number of factors, including the following, to ensure that PHP is a suitable option:

  • Whether the patient has no signs of liver dysfunction
  • Whether the patient has extensive cancer spread to other parts of the body (in which case a more traditional systemic chemotherapy plan may be more effective)
  • Whether the patient has intolerance to heparin or melphalan, one of the main medications used in this treatment, or an allergy to latex
  • Whether the veins and arteries leading to and from the patient’s liver are well-suited for the therapy

Percutaneous hepatic perfusion is just one of the advanced therapies offered by physicians at Moffitt as part of our commitment to providing the newest and most effective treatment options for metastatic melanoma. Our highly tailored approach allows us to help patients find the most appropriate treatments for their unique needs. This, in turn, allows us to help our patients achieve the best possible survival outcomes and quality of life.

To learn more about percutaneous hepatic perfusion or any of the other advanced melanoma treatments offered at Moffitt Cancer Center, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online. No referral is required.