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Radiofrequency ablation is an interventional radiology procedure that uses heat to precisely destroy liver tumors, kidney tumors and osteoid osteomas (painful, noncancerous bone tumors).
To perform radiofrequency ablation, an interventional radiologist uses a special needle or small probe to direct high heat to a very small bit of tissue. Using live imaging, he or she guides the probe exactly to all parts of the tumor. Pulses of electricity heat the probe tip, causing it to destroy the tumor bit by bit without harming the surrounding healthy tissue. In some cases, it may be necessary to drill into the surface of the tumor to make sure the entire tumor is destroyed.
Radiofrequency ablation normally takes about two hours, including time for anesthesia.
What to Expect
What to Expect
Radiofrequency ablation includes the following steps:
- For greater accuracy while treating the tumor, your child will be asleep during the procedure and monitored closely by an anesthesiologist.
- The interventional radiologist then inserts a needle into the tumor.
- Heat is directed through the needle to destroy tumor cells.
- Once the procedure is complete, your child will be taken to a recovery room for observation.
- Your child may be able to go home the same day depending on his or her condition.
- There may be some residual pain from the procedure, but this pain and the pain of the tumor should fade in a day or two.
- Some children may also need crutches.
Like all procedures, radiofrequency ablation has some risks. Sometimes there is bleeding where the probe entered the body. In rare cases, infection is possible. A bone fracture is also possible if the interventional radiologist has to drill into the bone while treating an osteoid osteoma. Because of this, it is recommended that your child avoid any weight-bearing sports activities for two to three months after the procedure.
Key Points to Remember
Key Points to Remember
- Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive way to destroy both cancerous and noncancerous tumors in different parts of the body.
- Your child will be under anesthesia during the procedure.
- Your child may be able to go home the same day following the procedure.
- Pain may last for a day or two after the procedure.
Locations
Locations
Locations
In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.