Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump

At Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) we are proud to be one of only three programs in Georgia offering hepatic artery infusion (HAI) pump therapy, a highly specialized treatment for patients with colorectal cancer that has spread (metastasized) to the liver.

This cutting-edge therapy delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver, where it is most needed, helping patients live longer with fewer side effects than traditional systemic chemotherapy. Our multidisciplinary cancer team is committed to bringing you the most advanced treatment options available, all backed by compassionate, personalized care.

What is hepatic artery infusion pump therapy?

The hepatic artery infusion pump is a small, implantable device that delivers a high concentration of chemotherapy directly to the liver through the hepatic artery, which is the main blood supply to liver tumors. Because it targets the liver directly, it allows for more potent chemotherapy delivery to cancer cells in the liver while reducing the exposure of the rest of your body to the drug.

This therapy is typically recommended for colorectal cancer patients whose cancer has spread only or primarily to the liver and cannot be removed entirely with surgery alone.

How does HAI pump therapy work

  • Surgical Placement: A small pump is surgically implanted under the skin in the abdomen and connected to the hepatic artery.
  • Targeted Delivery: The pump continuously delivers chemotherapy over several weeks, directly covering the liver in the medication.
  • Improved Efficacy: Because the liver processes the drug before it enters the rest of the bloodstream, this method offers a higher local dose with fewer systemic side effects.

What are the benefits of hepatic artery infusion pump therapy?

  • One of the most effective liver-directed therapies for colorectal liver metastases
  • May improve survival and shrink tumors, making some patients eligible for surgery later
  • Can be combined with systemic chemotherapy or other treatments as part of a comprehensive cancer care plan
  • Fewer overall side effects compared to IV chemotherapy alone

Am I a candidate for HAI pump therapy?

You may be a candidate for HAI pump therapy if:

  • You have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer that has spread only or primarily to the liver
  • Your liver function is strong enough to tolerate localized chemotherapy
  • You are in overall good health and eligible for minor surgery

Your care team at NGMC will evaluate your condition through advanced imaging, bloodwork and discussions with surgical and medical oncologists to determine the best treatment plan for your specific case.

Cancer Care at NGMC

At NGMC your care doesn’t stop at treatment. We provide a full range of services and support to guide you every step of the way:

Our award-winning cancer care team is here to help you live life as fully as possible—from diagnosis through recovery and beyond.

Contact Us Today

For more information about Cancer Services available at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center, call 770-219-8815.