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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.
Radiofrequency ablation includes the following steps:
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.
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