Therapy
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation uses heat from radio waves to destroy small areas of tissue, such as tumours or nerves causing pain or abnormal heart rhythms.
Quick answer
Radiofrequency Ablation: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) passes a needle-like probe into the target tissue and delivers heat generated by radio waves to destroy it. It is used in cancer care, pain management and, in a different form, for heart rhythms.
- Why it is done: It is used to treat small tumours in organs such as the liver, kidney or lung, to relieve certain types of chronic pain by targeting nerves, and to treat some varicose veins.
- What happens: Guided by imaging such as ultrasound or CT, the probe is placed into the target under local anaesthetic and sedation, or general anaesthetic.
What it is
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) passes a needle-like probe into the target tissue and delivers heat generated by radio waves to destroy it. It is used in cancer care, pain management and, in a different form, for heart rhythms.
Why it is done
It is used to treat small tumours in organs such as the liver, kidney or lung, to relieve certain types of chronic pain by targeting nerves, and to treat some varicose veins.
What happens
Guided by imaging such as ultrasound or CT, the probe is placed into the target under local anaesthetic and sedation, or general anaesthetic. The heat is applied for a set time to destroy the tissue.
Recovery
Many procedures are done as day cases or short stays. Some soreness at the site is common. Recovery is generally quicker than open surgery, with follow-up scans to check the result for tumours.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include pain, bleeding, infection and damage to nearby structures depending on the site. It suits small, well-defined targets, and larger tumours may need other treatments.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Radiofrequency Ablation: frequently asked questions
Is radiofrequency ablation an alternative to surgery?
For some small tumours or pain problems, yes — it can treat the target with less disruption than open surgery. Suitability depends on the size, number and location of the areas being treated.
How is heart ablation related to this?
Catheter ablation for abnormal heart rhythms uses the same principle of radiofrequency heat to destroy tiny areas of faulty tissue, though it is delivered through catheters inside the heart.
Related
Other therapy
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — cancer treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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