Preserve Quality of Life with Ablation Therapy: A Non-Surgical Treatment Option
WHAT IS ABLATION?
Ablation therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that destroys abnormal tissue, benign or malignant in some cases; used to treat tumors in the lung, breast, thyroid, and liver. The procedure is low-risk and helps preserve quality of life for patients.
Types of ablation include radiofrequency and microwave.
RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION (RFA)
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses high-frequency energy to destroy abnormal tissue, such as tumors, nodules, or other growths in the body. The procedure involves inserting a thin, needle-like probe into the targeted tissue, which delivers a controlled amount of energy to heat and destroy the tissue.
RFA is commonly used to treat a wide range of conditions, including both benign and malignant tumors, such as liver cancer, kidney cancer, and lung cancer. It can also be used to treat chronic venous insufficiency in the legs, a condition that causes swelling, pain, and discomfort, as well as chronic back and neck pain.
The procedure has several benefits over traditional surgery, including a shorter recovery time, lower risk of complications, and a reduced need for anesthesia. Additionally, RFA can be performed on an outpatient basis, which means that patients can return home the same day as the procedure.
RFA is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with tumors or other growths in the body. It offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgery that can help reduce pain, improve quality of life, and potentially even save lives.
MICROWAVE ABLATION (MWA)
Microwave ablation (MWA) is a minimally-invasive treatment option for cancer that utilizes high-frequency electromagnetic waves to heat and destroy tumor cells. The procedure is guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which allow doctors to accurately place a needle-like probe directly into the tumor.
Once the probe is in place, it emits microwaves that generate heat and destroy the tumor cells, while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis and typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
MWA is a safe and effective treatment option for a wide range of cancers, including lung, liver, kidney, and bone tumors. It is also used to treat tumors that have spread to other parts of the body or are in difficult-to-reach areas.
In addition to being an alternative to traditional surgery, MWA has several benefits over other treatments, including a lower risk of complications and a faster recovery time. It is also often more effective than other therapies, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
MWA is a highly effective and minimally-invasive treatment option for patients with cancer. It offers a safe and effective alternative to surgery that can help preserve quality of life while also potentially saving lives.
FAQ
Ablation therapy for thyroid nodules is a non-surgical treatment that uses high-frequency energy to shrink or destroy the nodules. The procedure works by heating the nodule, causing it to break down and be reabsorbed by the body.
Patients with benign thyroid nodules or recurrent thyroid nodules that are causing symptoms or cosmetic concerns may be good candidates for ablation therapy. Your doctor can determine if ablation therapy is right for you.
Ablation therapy is minimally invasive, safe, and effective compared to traditional surgery. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, has a short recovery period, and minimal risks of complications.
During the ablation therapy procedure for thyroid nodules, the doctor will insert a needle into the nodule under ultrasound guidance. The needle will deliver the high-frequency energy, which will heat and destroy the nodule.
Anesthesia is not required for ablation therapy for thyroid nodules, and the procedure is not typically painful. However, patients may experience some discomfort or pressure during the procedure.
Potential risks and complications of ablation therapy for thyroid nodules include temporary voice changes, skin burns, nerve injury, and infection. However, serious complications are rare.
Recovery time after ablation therapy for thyroid nodules is generally short, and most patients can return to their normal activities the same day or the day after the procedure. The doctor may advise you to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for a few days after the procedure.
Ablation therapy for thyroid nodules has been shown to be effective in shrinking or eliminating the nodules in about 90% of patients. The success rate may vary depending on the size and location of the nodules and the number of treatments needed.
Follow-up appointments after ablation therapy for thyroid nodules are necessary to monitor the nodule’s response to the treatment. The doctor may recommend a follow-up ultrasound and examination to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and evaluate for any potential complications.
In some cases, additional ablation therapy sessions may be needed to achieve the desired results or treat any recurrent nodules. The doctor can determine if additional sessions are necessary.