What Is It?
Thermal ablation is a minimally invasive technique to treat solid cancer tumors. Special probes are used to “burn” or “freeze” cancers. Imaging like CT, MRI or ultrasound is used to guide the probe to the exact location of the tumor. The high temperature destroys cancer cells and helps reduce the size of the tumor or slow its growth.
This procedure can be considered for tumors in the lung, liver and kidneys.
How is the Procedure Performed?
Your doctor may use intravenous conscious sedation and/or general anesthesia in addition to local anesthetic. They will determine the most appropriate type of anesthesia to use during the initial evaluation.
Using imaging-guidance, the interventional radiologist will insert the needle through the skin and advance it to the site of the tumor. Once in place, the doctor will activate the probe, freezing or burning the area to kill the tumor cells. A large tumor may require the doctor to do multiple ablations by repositioning the needle electrode or by placing multiple needles into different parts of the tumor. This will help ensure no tumor tissue remains.
Each ablation takes about 10 to 30 minutes, with additional time required if the doctor performs multiple ablations. At the end of the procedure, the doctor will remove the needle electrode and apply pressure to stop any bleeding. They will cover the opening in the skin with dressing. No sutures are needed.
How Do I Prep For The Procedure?
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight (12:00 am) the night before your procedure. You may take medications with a sip of water in the morning. Bring a list of all prescribed medications with you to the procedure. You may be asked to hold diabetic/weight loss medication or blood thinners. You should arrange to have someone take you home after the procedure.
What Happens After The Procedure?
You may experience some pain or discomfort at the site, which can be managed with oral pain medication. The effectiveness of the intervention is often assessed through follow-up imaging studies to monitor tumor response.
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Fairfield, CT 06824
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