Radiofrequency Liver Tumor Ablation

An exciting recent development in the treatment of liver tumors uses alternating current radiofrequency to heat and destroy tumors in the liver. RFA heats tumors to over 100 degrees Celsius and thereby kills the cancer cells. This technology has a number of advantages including a low complication rate, the ability to do the procedure without major open surgery, and only involves an overnight hospital stay.

The "probe" is a 15g needle, which goes through the skin and directly into the tumor. Ultrasound or CAT scan monitors the thermal destruction of the tumor. The ease of the procedure for the patient and the relative safety make RFA a realistic option for patients who are not candidates for liver resection.