Destroys malignancies by generating high-frequency alternating current which creates frictional energy and heat conduction.
Typically utilized by percutaneous use of a specially designed electrode into the tumor and applying radiofrequency energy to generate a zone of thermal destruction.
A high-frequency alternating electric current from a generator causes ionic agitation that heats spheroid volume of tissue in the area of the applicator tip.
Temperature above 45°C causes loss of cellular structure and protein denaturation and cell death.
Temperature generally ranges from 150-180 degress F.
Radiofrequency energy flows through the electrodes and causes ionic agitation and friction in surrounding tissue.
Friction creates the heat in tissues and results in destruction of tumors which is usually completed within 12 minutes.
Results in irreversible coagulation of proteins, including enzymes, intranuclear proteins, DNA proteins and DNA.
Can be performed with laparotomy, laparoscopy or percutaneously by guided imagery with CT or ultrasound.
Now a targeted therapy for spinal metastases.
May be utilized with hepatic resections or intra-arterial chemotherapy.
Currently used for treatment of stage I lung cancer in patients not eligible for surgery becuase of co-morbid processes, kidney cancer in patients with small tumors under 4 cm and usually in the outer margins of the kidney, liver cancer with tumors under 4 cm, osteoid osteomas, and bone pain from metastatic disease.
DISCERN AF study assessed the incidence and predictors of asymptomatic atrial fibrillation before and after cardiac ablation: The ratio of asymptomatic to symptomatic AF episodes increased from 1.1 before 23.7 after ablation.