What is Radio Frequency Ablation?

CT Guided Radiofrequency Ablation is a procedure that uses a CT scanner to produce images to guide an electrode into the exact area where the ablation (cauterisation of tissue) is needed. The electrode is placed in the area and then heated up for several minutes. General anaesthetic is used as the procedure is painful, the anaesthetic will remove any possibility of movement during the scan. Local anaesthetic is given as well to numb the site during and for a short time after.

What are the alternatives to Radio Frequency Ablation?

This depends on the type of tumour we are treating, surgery may be an alternative. RFA is much less invasive than surgery and recovery time is much quicker.

What are the risks of Radio Frequency Ablation?

• There is a small risk of infection.
• There is a small risk of bleeding.
• There is a small risk of nerve injury both temporary and permanent.
• There may be a small risk of fracture if a bone lesion is treated.
• There is a risk that the tumour is not completely treated - especially if it is closely related to major nerves, blood vessels or the skin surface.
• There is a risk of a skin burn.

Who will perform the Radio Frequency Ablation?

It will be performed by a Consultant Radiologist who has been specifically trained in the technique.

Preparing for Radio Frequency Ablation

Remember to tell the doctor or nurse, before the treatment day, if you are on any blood thinning medication (warfarin or apixaban) or if you are diabetic (insulin, tablet or diet controlled).

Please let us know if you are on antibiotics for an active infection, we need to wait 14 days after your antibiotics have stopped or your symptoms have resolved before we can proceed with the procedure.

When can I go home?

You may need to stay in hospital overnight following the procedure for routine monitoring of post procedural pain and the ablation site.  We would expect most patients to be discharged the morning after the procedure.

How will I feel after the Radio Frequency Ablation?

It is common for patients to feel discomfort that can last up to 2 weeks following the procedure. We will be able to supply you with painkillers to take home. If you require a further supply, they can be obtained from your local general practitioner. You should rest for 1 to 2 days after the procedure and avoid strenuous activity for 5 days.

Normal pain medication can be taken as usual.

Care of the procedure site

There will be a small wound, this will be closed using Steristrips (adhesive paper stich) and covered with a small dressing. The dressing should be left in place for 96 hours (4 days). It can be gently peeled off after then. Please check the wound is clean, dry and healed. We may on occasion use a surgical suture to close the wound. In this case they will need to be removed your GP practice in 5 days. We will let you know at the time if this is the case. If you experience any bleeding apply pressure to the wound and add a dressing and contact using the contact details provided.

What happens next?

You will be reviewed at 6 weeks after the procedure with a follow up appointment virtually or face to face in our outpatient department in order to assess your progress. If you have any concerns or questions prior to the clinic, please speak to the appropriate secretary/keyworker.