The development of arterial chemotherapy in the course of the twentieth century is recapitulated, emphasizing the implications of advancements which have been made in anatomic examination and cell biology.The literature is reviewed to determine the current position of arterial chemotherapy among other treatment strategies. As a single modality treatment, it is exclusively employed as palliative treatment. Combined with surgery, radiation or immune therapy, arterial chemotherapy is of further significance as part of multimodality treatment. The best chance for cure is achieved if applied as induction therapy.