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Radio Frequency Ablation

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation refers to the controlled use of electrical energy to destroy tissue through prolonged exposure to heat.  The minimally invasive procedure is a common treatment in cardiology, renal, and hepatic tumor ablation, and for removing varicose veins.   

During radiofrequency ablation, the surgeon inserts an ablation probe into the affected tissue and deploys small, curved electrodes from the end of the probe.  Turning on the generator and selecting target temperatures, the surgeon monitors the flow of energy passing through the electrodes.  The resulting friction causes the death of the tissue after a few minutes of prolonged exposure.  Ultrasound and thermocouples (miniature thermometers) help the surgeon monitor the internal temperature of the tissue to ensure that it does not fluctuate.   

A 3-cm ablation requires less than 10–15 minutes of heat exposure.  The size of the treated area varies according to the probe size, target temperature, and duration of exposure.  Surrounding normal tissue typically remains unaffected by the procedure.   

Radiofrequency ablation does not require general anesthesia if the probe is inserted directly into the target area through the skin.  However, if the surgeon chooses to make several abdominal incisions to insert other instruments to treat the area, or if an open surgery is necessary, the patient receives general anesthesia and is subject to a longer recovery period.  Patients usually leave the hospital on the same day, although sometimes an overnight session is necessary following more comprehensive treatments.  Patients may experience a slight fever for 2 to 3 days post surgery.