Tumor Ablation

What are Tumor Ablations?

Tumor Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to destroy cancerous cells with the application of extreme temperatures or ethanol. This method of treatment is especially useful with difficult to reach tumors that have not responded to chemotherapy.

Ablation treatments consist of a tiny, needle-like probe inserted percutaneously. Once the needle-like probe is inserted directly into the site of the tumor, a generator is then activated to either “burn” or “freeze” the cancerous area. Ablation procedures use the guidance of diagnostic imaging and routinely performed under conscious sedation.

Tumor Ablations fall under one of four different types of approaches:

  • Microwave ablation (MWA)
  • Radio-frequency ablation (RFA)
  • Percutaneous Ethanol ablation (PEI)
  • Cryoablation

Microwave Ablation (MWA) is a form of thermal ablation used to heat or “burn” the site of a tumor. MWA can be performed within minutes and has similar results to Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA).

Radiofrequency Ablation often referred to as RFA, is another image-guided procedure created to destroy cancerous tissue. Using high- frequency electrical currents, RFA conducts a surplus amount of generated heat to destroy cancer cells surrounding the catheter used for the procedure. This minimally invasive procedure requires local anesthetics or conscious sedation anesthesia.

Percutaneous Ethanol ablation (PEI) alternatively referred to as ethanol ablation or alcohol ablation. This minimally invasive procedure kills cancer cells using the injection of alcohol (ethanol) percutaneous.

Cryoablation: During the process of Cryoablation a thin, hollow needle (cryoprobe) is inserted through the skin and directly into the cancerous tissue. Extremely cold and thermally conductive fluids are then circulated through the cryoprobe, freezing the tumor. Cryoablation affords the process of freezing and thawing of the targeted tumor. This advanced process is repeated several times during one treatment session, making Cryoablation curative for tumors less than 3 cm.

Tumor Ablations are considered safe and effective procedures. Ablations may be repeated multiple times if medically necessary to achieve optimal treatment. It is common for some patients to report flu-like symptoms a few days after the procedure has taken place. Serious complications are rare and occur in approximately 1% of all treated patients.

Have questions?

To learn more about how our physicians can help you, contact us directly (602) 200-9339

Request
Appointment