MEDICAL PROCEDURES
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Therapy of Liver
When do surgeons do RFA?
In the U.S., RFA therapy has become the ablation (tissue destruction) therapy of choice among surgeons for treating liver cancer (HCC). The surgeon can perform this procedure laparoscopically (through small holes in the abdomen) or during open exploration of the abdomen. In some instances, the procedure can be done without opening the abdomen by just using ultrasound for visual guidance.
How is RFA done and how does it work?
In RFA, heat is generated locally by a high frequency, alternating current that flows from the electrodes. A probe is inserted into the center of the tumor and the non-insulated electrodes, which are shaped like prongs, are projected into the tumor. The local heat that is generated melts the tissue (coagulative necrosis) that is adjacent to the probe. The probe is left in place for about 10 to 15 minutes. The whole procedure is monitored visually by ultrasound scanning.
What size tumor is treated by RFA?
The ideal size of an HCC tumor for RFA is less than 3 cm. Larger tumors may require more than one session.
What is the benefit of RFA therapy?
This treatment should be viewed as palliative (providing some relief), but not curative.
To read more about Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), please read the MedicineNet.com Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma) article.
Medical Author: Tse-Ling Fong, M.D.
Medical Editor: Leslie J. Schoenfield, M.D., Ph.D.
|
DISCLAIMER:
Information on this site is provided for informational
purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice
provided by your own physician or other medical professional.
You should not use the information contained herein
for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease,
or prescribing any medication. You should read carefully
all product packaging. Not all Canadian drugs, Canada
prescription and Canadian prescription medicine is available
at discount Canadian on line pharmacies. If you have
or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly
contact your health care provider. Information and statements
regarding diet supplements have not been evaluated by
Health Canada and are not intended to diagnose, treat,
cure, or prevent any disease. All trade and service
marks mentioned on this site are recognized as belonging
to their respective owners.
|
|
|
|
