Radio Frequency Ablation

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(Redirected from RFA)

Other names[edit | edit source]

Radiofrequency ablation is also called rhizotomy

Radiofrequency ablation.jpg

Definition[edit | edit source]

It is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to reduce or stop the transmission of pain.

How does it work?[edit | edit source]

  • Radiofrequency waves produce heat when focused and they ablate, or "burn," the nerve that is causing the pain.
  • It stops the transmission of pain signals to the brain by focused burning or ablation of the affected nerve.

How the procedure is performed?[edit | edit source]

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses a specialized needle to apply electromagnetic energy, which produces heat, to destroy primary or metastatic tumors no larger than 3 centimeters (cm) (about an inch).

Use of RFA in Hepatocellular carcinoma[edit | edit source]

  • RFA can be used intra-operatively by a surgeon under ultrasound (US) guidance or in radiology by an interventional radiologist using US or CT guidance.
  • The needle is guided through a percutaneous route using US or CT, and placed in very close proximity to the tumor.
  • RFA done by a surgeon in an OR (intraoperative RFA or IORFA) setting allows for the additional option of creating a larger incision, inserting both the ultrasound and needle in very close proximity to the targeted tumor.
  • Some patients with hepatocellular carcinoma are not recommended for surgery but may undergo percutaneous RFA, a less invasive approach to tumor destruction.
  • Percutaneous RFAs are performed by an IR.28 The goal of RFA in treating HCC tumors, whether performed surgically or percutaneously, is to destroy the tumor.
  • Physicians determine effectiveness of RFA through MRI, which is performed approximately two months after ablation.
  • If the MRI reveals that some of the targeted tumor remains, this is called a residual.
  • A tumor that regrows in the same area as a removed tumor is called a recurrence

Use of RFA in Cardiology[edit | edit source]

Radiofrequency ablation procedure is also used in the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by uncoordinated atrial activation with resulting deterioration of atrial mechanical function.

Other uses[edit | edit source]

Radiofrequency ablation is used in many other situations including lumbar or neck pain, thyroid disorders, back problems, varicose vein treatments etc.


Radio Frequency Ablation Resources

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD