What is Ablation?
Ablation is a procedure used to treat cancerous tissues in organs such as the liver, kidney, thyroid, and breast, by inserting a needle through the skin to destroy the tumor without the need for surgery. Unlike surgery, no incisions are made, and only a small needle puncture mark remains on the skin. This leads to significantly shorter hospital stays and recovery times compared to surgery.
Ablation is performed with imaging techniques such as ultrasound (US) or computed tomography (CT) to visualize the lesion, ensuring that the correct tissue is targeted. The risk of damaging healthy tissue is very low and almost never occurs.
Types of Ablation:
There are three commonly used types of ablation:
RFA and MWA work by heating the tumor, while cryoablation works by freezing it. The most appropriate method will be selected by your interventional radiologist based on your condition.
How Can Ablation Benefit Me?
Ablation is typically recommended when tumors in the liver or other organs cannot be treated by other means or when surgery is not suitable. The goal of the procedure is to either completely destroy the tumor or, in some cases, shrink it and stop its growth, with minimal systemic side effects.
How Should I Prepare for Ablation?
Before the procedure, blood tests will be done to assess liver and kidney function and to check clotting values.
You should inform your doctor about all medications you are taking and any allergies. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications before the procedure.
Recent ultrasound, contrast-enhanced CT, or MRI images (taken within the last month) may be required.
Since the procedure will be performed under anesthesia in the interventional radiology department, you will need to fast for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure.
How is the Ablation Procedure Done?
The procedure is performed in the interventional radiology department with imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or CT, depending on the tumor’s location.
What Are the Risks?
Side effects are typically mild and may include pain, nausea, and fever, which can be managed with medication and usually resolve within a few days.
Bruising at the insertion site may occur. Rare complications include:
What Can Happen After the Procedure?
Most patients experience symptoms such as pain, nausea, or fever, collectively known as “ablation post-syndrome.” These symptoms can be easily controlled with medication.
You can resume normal eating the following day, and most patients are discharged within 24-48 hours. Mild fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite may occur in the first 1-2 weeks after the procedure.
In the weeks following the procedure, your oncologist or hepatologist will conduct blood tests to assess liver and kidney function. Imaging (CT or MRI) may be performed 1-3 months later to monitor the tumor size.
Note:
This document is based on materials from the European Society of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology (CIRSE). The information provided here is for general informational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.