RF Ablation is usually performed percutaneously, under conscious sedation or preferably under general anaesthesia. It can also be performed laparoscopically or intraoperatively under general anesthesia based on the size and locations of the tumour as decided by the attending clinicians. Cell death occurs at temperatures greater that 42 – 43° C and thermal ablation with radiofrequency uses temperatures of 60 – 100° C to ensure successful outcomes.
Once the RF Ablation procedure is adequately completed, the patient can be discharged if he has no complications such as pain, fever, bleeding, pleural effusion, and pneumothorax.
Post procedure a scan is done and the patient is expected to come for a follow-up visit after 4-6 weeks. The patient will have to undergo blood tests and CT scan /MRI.
Normally the treated tumour shows shrinkage in size over the course of months to years.