Thermal Ablation Therapy

Thermal ablation treats cancerous tumors using heat-generating probes inserted directly into malignant tissue. Because cancer cells are more susceptible to destruction by heat than normal tissue cells, thermal ablation allows surgeons to treat tumors with minimal damage to surrounding tissue. Especially in cancers of the liver, lung, bone and kidney that are often difficult to treat surgically, thermal ablation offers a better alternative to eliminate or shrink tumors and reduce pain.

african american nurse comforting patient

Types of Thermal Ablation

There are two types of thermal ablation, including radiofrequency (RFA) and microwave ablation. Both are minimally invasive techniques that treat cancer by applying intense heat through a small probe inserted directly into the tumor. RFA and microwave ablation treatments aim to reduce patient symptoms, improve quality of life and increase survival rate.

The Thermal Ablation Process

Surgeons use CT scanning to position a probe into the tumor. Alternating electrical currents pass through the tumor, heating the tissue. The heat destroys the cells and ablates (destroys) the tumor.

Benefits

Thermal ablation provides an excellent alternative to major surgery, which can pose risks. Many patients who do not qualify for standard surgery can still be treated with thermal ablation. Thermal ablation reduces risks and speeds recovery. Most patients are able to go home the same day as the procedure.

Patient Criteria

The procedure works best if the tumor(s) have not spread widely, there are fewer than five tumors to treat, and tumors are less than four centimeters in diameter. The tumor(s) should not be close to any critical organs.

Risks

The risk of major complications due to thermal ablation is 1 to 2 percent. Bleeding is the most common complication. Depending on the size of the tumor, it is possible that thermal ablation will destroy only part of the tumor. If this is an issue in your case, your physician will discuss the risk during your consultation.

Sutter Cancer Centers is staffed by leading specialists in thoracic and oncologic surgery, interventional radiology, radiation therapy and pulmonary treatment. The lead surgical oncologist and has been performing thermal ablation therapies for more than 20 years.

To find out more about radiofrequency and microwave ablation, call (916) 454-6913.