What Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Is
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an FDA approved, non-surgical procedure used to treat inoperable cancers. This promising new procedure uses an electrical current to heat and destroy liver, kidney, lung and bone tumors.
With radiofrequency ablation, a needle in inserted into the tumor using ultrasound or CT guidance. When the needle is properly placed within the tumor, multiple electrodes are extended from the needle tip. When fully extended, the electrodes form an umbrella shape to create more contact points within the tumor. A radiofrequency current is then run through the electrodes (the needle is insulated) to essentially cook the tumor tissue. At the same time, blood vessels feeding the tumor are cauterized, preventing any significant amount of blood loss. The body eventually replaces the dead tumor cells with scar tissue, which will eventually shrink.
Radiofrequency ablation is a very safe procedure with complications occurring in less than 3% of cases. It can be used to treat tumors that are visible with imaging techniques and about 5 cm in diameter or less. Since it has few side effects and damages very little healthy tissue, this procedure can be performed repeatedly to help control both primary and secondary cancers. In most cases radiofrequency ablation won’t cure the cancer, but rather destroys focal tumors, improves the quality of life, and often extends life for people with inoperable cancer.
RIA radiologists perform this innovative cancer treatment at several Denver area hospitals.