How Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment Works
Radiofrequency ablation combines electrical energy and heat to destroy cancer cells without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. Outside of cancer therapies, radiofrequency ablation is also used in forms of arthritis to heat up nerve tissue, which can decrease the pain signal in that area. Similarly, along with destroying cancer tissue, radiofrequency ablation may help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with symptoms of cancer. Radiofrequency ablation can also be applied to certain precancerous cells, like in cells lining the esophagus for those with Barrett’s esophagus.
How Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment is Administered
Radiofrequency ablation is preferred mostly because it is a minimally invasive procedure. The radiofrequency ablation procedure starts with imaging tests to identify the exact location of the tumor on the patient. The radiologist then guides a thin needle into the injection site of the cancerous tissue. High frequency radio waves pass through the needle, heating up the tissue. The process is similar to other alternative therapies for liver cancer, like hyperthermia therapy in terms of heating up tissue to a high temperature that can damage or kill cancer cells.
Radiofrequency ablation is most commonly administered through the skin, or percutaneously. However, it may also be administered during a minimally invasive procedure or via laparoscopy. This involves a small incision made in the abdomen and a flexible tube inserted into the cut.
The intensity of the heat and radio energy can vary based on the size of the tumor. The procedure may take 30 minutes to a few hours, but recovery following the procedure is minimal. Depending on your health and the severity of the cancer, you may require more than one session.
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