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Percutaneous Tumor Ablation (RFA/MWA)

Image-guided thermal ablation using radiofrequency (RFA) or microwave (MWA) energy delivered through percutaneous probes to destroy localized tumors in liver, lung, kidney, bone, and adrenal gland.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Percutaneous Tumor Ablation (RFA/MWA)?

Percutaneous tumor ablation is a minimally invasive image-guided technique using radiofrequency (RFA), microwave (MWA), cryoablation, or irreversible electroporation to destroy localized tumors by thermal or electrical injury, sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

RFA uses alternating electrical current to generate frictional heat at temperatures of 60-100°C through monopolar or multipolar electrodes. MWA uses electromagnetic energy at 915 MHz or 2.45 GHz to produce higher temperatures, faster ablation, and larger ablation zones less affected by perfusion mediated cooling.

Common indications include hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC <3 cm), colorectal liver metastases, primary lung cancer (NSCLC <3 cm) in non-surgical candidates, renal cell carcinoma (T1a <4 cm), painful bone metastases, and adrenal metastases. Performed under CT, ultrasound, or MR guidance with conscious sedation or general anesthesia.

Symptoms

Small primary liver tumor (HCC <3 cm)
Limited number of liver metastases (1-3 lesions, each <3 cm)
Early-stage non-small cell lung cancer in non-surgical candidates
Small renal mass (T1a <4 cm) in patients with comorbidity
Painful bone metastases requiring local treatment
Adrenal metastasis or recurrent disease
Unfit for surgery due to comorbidities or tumor location

Risk Factors

Tumor near vital structures (heat sink near major vessels)
Coagulopathy or thrombocytopenia
Active infection or sepsis
Severe ascites in liver ablation
Pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (RFA caution)
Pregnancy or planned conception
Inadequate visualization of tumor on imaging

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • New diagnosis of small primary liver, lung, or kidney tumor
  • Recurrent disease after surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy
  • Painful bone metastases unresponsive to medical therapy
  • Multidisciplinary tumor board referral for ablation evaluation
  • Surgical contraindications requiring image-guided alternative
  • Bridge to liver transplantation in HCC
  • Treatment-induced complications (post-ablation syndrome, abscess)

Treatment Methods

01
Pre-procedure imaging (multiphase CT or MR) and biopsy if indicated
02
Conscious sedation or general anesthesia per case complexity
03
Image guidance: ultrasound, CT, or MR for probe placement
04
RFA or MWA with single or multiple overlapping ablations
05
Post-ablation immediate imaging for technical success and complication assessment
06
Antibiotic prophylaxis in selected cases (biliary intervention, immunocompromised)
07
Follow-up imaging at 1, 3, 6 months and annually for local tumor control

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.