Radiofrequency Ablation for Liver Tumors

Using radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to destroy liver tumors is a promising alternative for patients who cannot endure surgery but require immediate removal of tumors.

The procedure can be done quickly, with little pain and minimal recovery time, and as often as needed, according to Rendon Nelson, M.D., a radiologist at Duke University (Durham, NC, USA; www.mc.duke.edu) who has performed more than 100 such procedures on tumors in the liver, kidneys, and bones since May 1999.

Ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) are used to guide a small probe through a quarter-inch incision in the skin and directly to the tumor site. More...