Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used for treating tumours. It uses an image-guided technology that destroys cancer cells using heat. It uses the help of ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to place an electrode on cancerous cells. It sends high-frequency electrical currents through the electrode, creating focused heat that kills the cancer cells around it.
How is Rf Ablation performed: Before, during and after
Before surgery:Â The doctor will numb the area either with local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia. It depends on the condition of the patient.
During surgery:Â A tiny incision is made on the skin. It is made in the area where the electrode needs to be placed. Through the incision, a laparoscopic plastic tube is inserted. Using the guidance of a camera, the needle electrodes are inserted at the tumour site. Once the procedure is done, the electrodes are removed, and the incision is closed. This procedure is known as laparoscopy.
After surgery:Â The patient may feel drowsiness or slight pain later.
Cost of the Rf Ablation
Description
Cost
Average Cost of surgery in Hyderabad
Rs. 60,000
Average Cost of surgery in India
Rs. 70,000
Surgery details
Description
Number of days in the hospital
Around 1 to 2 days
Type of surgery
Major
Type of Anaesthesia
General or local
Number of days required to recover
A few days
Duration of the procedure
30 minutes
Type of surgical options available
Minimally invasive
Risks and complications of the Rf Ablation
Skin infections at the site of the injection.Â
Damage to the blood vessels or nerves surrounding the area where the needle was inserted.
Excessive bleedingÂ
Irreversible neurological damage
Long-term numbness and tingling.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rf Ablation
RF ablation is an innovative way to treat benign and malignant tumours. In some cases, after a close follow-up, RF ablation can also treat small cancers.
After RF ablation, the patient may typically experience pain for around 1 to 3 weeks after the procedure. It is recommended to rest for a few days before going back to the regular routine.
RF ablation is done under local anaesthesia in an office or outpatient setting. Doctors may give the patient medicines to help in relaxing and numbing the area. In such cases, the patient can stay awake.
It is normal to have pain for a few days after the procedure, as some nerves can be damaged. But, after a few days, the pain will reduce.
If it is an outpatient procedure, the patient will be able to walk out of the hospital within half an hour after the RF ablation procedure. However, it is not advisable to drive home as the anaesthesia may cause drowsiness, dizziness, etc.
Some people can experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, etc. These may happen for a few days after the procedure. To treat those symptoms, the patient may use Tylenol. However, it is advised to consult the doctor first.Â
Normally, this procedure can be done once or twice a year. If the patient has not had any relief after the procedure, the RF ablation can be repeated after three to four weeks. The time should be given to let the nerve cells regrow, minimising the damage.
Rf ablation is a very safe procedure. The mortality due to RF ablations is extremely uncommon. Also, the survival rate depends on the condition for which the patient is being treated.
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