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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Tumors

Minimally invasive image-guided thermal tumor destruction

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

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 Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Tumors?

Electrode needle (diameter 1–2 mm) placed into tumor under imaging guidance; alternating current generates heat (60–100°C) causing coagulative necrosis.

Lesions typically treated: hepatocellular carcinoma <3 cm, small renal masses, small lung nodules (metastases, primary), benign bone lesions (osteoid osteoma).

Microwave and cryoablation are related thermal techniques with specific indications.

Generally performed with moderate sedation or general anesthesia; single-session treatment common.

Symptoms

Early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients not eligible for surgery
Small renal cell carcinoma (<4 cm) in patients with comorbidities
Limited lung metastases or primary early-stage lung cancer non-surgical candidates
Osteoid osteoma — curative RFA
Pain palliation of painful bone metastases
Recurrent tumor after other treatments (liver, kidney)
Thyroid benign nodule treatment — RFA alternative to surgery
Benign parathyroid adenoma selected cases

Risk Factors

Tumor size >3 cm, proximity to large vessels — reduced efficacy (heat-sink effect)
Proximity to bowel, diaphragm, vital structures — risk of collateral injury
Bleeding disorders, anticoagulation — bleeding risk
Uncorrectable coagulopathy — contraindication
Active infection — relative contraindication
Central tumors near biliary/vascular hilum — higher complication risk
Post-ablation syndrome (fever, malaise) — self-limited 1–2 weeks
Incomplete ablation requiring repeat treatment — imaging surveillance

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Newly diagnosed small liver/kidney/lung tumor in high-surgical-risk patient — multidisciplinary referral
  • Painful bone metastasis despite radiation — interventional oncology consultation for RFA
  • Symptomatic benign thyroid nodule — consider RFA as surgical alternative

Treatment Methods

01
Pre-procedure: fasting 6 hours, renal function, coagulation, consent including organ-specific risks.
02
Antibiotic prophylaxis for some indications; pre-procedure imaging review for planning.
03
Sedation or general anesthesia; patient positioned for optimal access (prone, supine, lateral).
04
CT or US-guided needle placement; thermal ablation typically 10–20 minutes per cycle.
05
Immediate post-ablation imaging (contrast CT/US) to confirm complete coverage.
06
Follow-up imaging at 1, 3, 6, 12 months to detect residual or recurrent tumor; repeat RFA possible.

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.