Radiofrequency Ablation of Tumor

Many methods of minimally invasive therapy have been tried in recent years to eliminate tumors in organs like the liver, lungs or kidneys.  One of the most promising is called radiofrequency ablation, sometimes referred to as RFA.  RFA is indicated in patients with inoperable tumors and patients who are poor surgical candidates and in patients who have failed chemotherapy or attempts at initial surgical resection.  The procedure is performed by placing a special needle electrode into the tumor under the guidance of an imaging method such as ultrasound, CT scanning, or MRI imaging.  A radiofrequency current is then passed through the electrode to heat the tumor tissue near the needle tip and then ablate-or eliminate-it.  The heat from radiofrequency energy also closes up small blood vessels, thereby minimizing the risk of bleeding.  In many cases, radiofrequency ablation causes only minimal discomfort and may be done as an outpatient procedure without general anesthesia.  In complicated or prolonged cases, general anesthesia and an overnight hospital stay may be required.