Radiofrequency Ablation

This is a new technique that destroys liver tumors by heating them to high temperatures (80 - 100 °C).Tumors up to 4 centimeters (approximately 2 inches) in diameter can be effectively destroyed with this technique.

The patient undergoing radiofrequency ablation receives IV sedation and grounding pads are placed on the legs. A thin needle is inserted into the tumor and electrical current is passed through the tip of the needle which becomes very hot and destroys the tumor. The procedure lasts 10 - 15 minutes and the patient goes home on the same day.The majority of patients do not experience side effects and resume normal activity the following day.

Initial clinical research has shown radiofrequency ablation to be effective in controlling tumor growth in the liver.In Italy, 29 patients with 44 liver metastases were treated with radiofrequency ablation. No complications occurredand complete necrosis occurred in 66% of patients. Eighty-nine percent of the patients survived 18 months. The ability of radiofrequency ablation to significantly prolong life in patients with liver tumors is currently under investigation. The Liver Tumor Service at Allegheny General Hospital is participatingin a multi-center trial that is investigating the clinical effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation.The electrical generator and treatment needle are shown below.

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