Ablation of Liver Tumors Using Radiofrequency Waves
Radiofrequency Ablation of Liver Tumors
Most liver tumors are inoperable and require the use of alternative methods for treatment.
The most common non-surgical method for eliminating these tumors is RFA. Additionally, RFA can be used as an adjunctive treatment to complement liver tumor surgeries and in conjunction with systemic chemotherapy.
RFA or Radiofrequency
The technique involves the use of radiofrequency ablation. This method has shown highly remarkable results in the field of medicine, such as the ablation of malignant lesions in the liver, bones, lungs, breasts, and more.
How the procedure is performed
In this method, specialized RF electrodes (needles) are guided into the tumor using ultrasound or CT scan. Once positioned, they are connected to an RF generator, which produces heat to destroy the living tumor cells at the site.
Specialized treatment at the PardisNoor Health Comprehensive Imaging Center
The Comprehensive Imaging Center PardisNoor Health, equipped with modern facilities and the latest medical knowledge, staffed by experienced specialists, provides an opportunity for patients who previously traveled abroad for such procedures to continue their treatment with peace of mind at this center.
Intervention Clinics
The interventional clinics at PardisNoor comprehensive imaging centers utilize advanced equipment and a specialized team to provide precise and highly safe minimally invasive medical treatments.
The superiority of radiofrequency over surgery
In cases where the lesions are not accessible and surgical procedures do not yield favorable outcomes for the patient, radiofrequency treatment is considered the best therapeutic approach.
Cases where the treatment outcome is favorable.
If the liver lesions are limited (fewer than 5 lesions) and small in size (less than 5 centimeters), and there are no extrahepatic lesions or they are under control, favorable outcomes can be achieved with this procedure.
Necessary Preparations for the Procedure
Complete fasting approximately 6 hours prior to the procedure.
Bathing and removal of excess hair from the abdomen and both legs.
Carrying medical documents related to the illness.
– Perform a blood coagulation test
The presence of one companion for administrative procedures.
Necessary Preoperative Examinations
It is necessary for your liver function to be evaluated by the center’s specialist physician.
If you have a heart condition or diabetes, be sure to inform your doctor so that the necessary precautions can be taken.
If you are taking medications such as warfarin, aspirin, or Plavix, be sure to inform your treating physician.
Tumor recurrence
Ablation of a tumor does not equate to its complete eradication or a definitive cure. There remains a possibility that cancerous cells may survive at the tumor’s margins, which can lead to recurrence. During subsequent follow-ups, the patient is evaluated, and if recurrence is detected, the tumor is ablated again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the procedure take?
Depending on the number of lesions, this procedure can be completed within 1 to 2 hours.
Does this procedure require anesthesia?
Yes, this procedure requires anesthesia because burning tumors with radiofrequency waves is performed at temperatures between 90 to 105 degrees Celsius. This temperature is intolerable and necessitates light anesthesia.
Is hospitalization necessary?
This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and the patient is discharged 3 to 4 hours afterward. In some cases, depending on the patient’s condition, hospitalization for up to 24 hours may be required.
How is post-operative follow-up conducted?
To evaluate the success of the treatment, a CT scan or MRI of the liver is performed one month after the RFA procedure and compared with the pre-procedure records. Subsequently, the necessary measures for further treatment are undertaken.
How long is the recovery period after surgery?
After the surgery, the patient may experience shoulder pain, weakness, loss of appetite, and fever, which can sometimes last up to 10 days. Therefore, the patient requires 7 to 10 days of rest.