This document addresses the use of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) for malignant lesions outside the liver. These catheter-based embolization procedures are proposed as adjunct therapeutic interventions prior to operative resection or for palliation of symptoms.

Note:

• This document does not address malignant lesions of the central nervous system (intracranial and spinal).
• This document does not address TACE or TAE as therapeutic interventions for actively bleeding malignant or non-malignant lesions, or for services addressed in any of the documents noted below.

Note: For additional information please refer to the following related documents:

• CG-SURG-28 Transcatheter Uterine Artery Embolization
• CG-SURG-61 Cryosurgical, Radiofrequency, Microwave or Laser Ablation to Treat Solid Tumors Outside the Liver
• CG-SURG-78 Locoregional Techniques for Treating Primary and Metastatic Liver Malignancies

Investigational and Not Medically Necessary:

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization and transcatheter arterial embolization are considered investigational and not medically necessary for malignant lesions outside the liver.