Radiofrequency Ablation of Liver Tumours
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of liver tumours is a minimally invasive procedure used to destroy cancerous cells in the liver by applying heat generated from radiofrequency energy. The treatment has become increasingly popular as a means of addressing primary and secondary liver tumours, such as hepatocellular carcinoma and liver metastases, particularly for patients who are not candidates for traditional surgical methods.
During RFA, a needle-like probe is inserted through the skin and guided to the tumour using imaging technologies like ultrasound or CT scans. Once properly positioned, the probe releases high-frequency electrical currents, generating heat that causes the targeted tumour tissue to be ablated, or destroyed. The heat causes coagulative necrosis of the tumour cells, effectively shrinking or completely eliminating the tumour mass.
RFA is considered an effective local therapy for liver tumours, often used as an alternative to surgery, particularly in early-stage cancers. It has also been used in combination with other therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or as a bridge to liver transplantation. The procedure offers a focal approach to treatment, targeting the tumour while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue.
Procedure Duration
The duration of RFA for liver tumours can vary depending on several factors, including the size, location, and number of tumours being treated. Typically, the procedure lasts between 1 to 3 hours. It is often performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day, though some may require a short hospital stay for observation.
The RFA procedure is divided into several phases:
- Preparation and Imaging: Before RFA begins, the patient undergoes imaging scans to confirm the tumour's location and size. This phase includes sedation or anesthesia, preparation of the treatment area, and positioning to provide optimal access to the liver.
- Ablation: Once the needle-like probe is positioned in the tumour, radiofrequency energy is delivered to heat and destroy the cancer cells. The time required for the ablation itself is relatively short, usually between 10 to 30 minutes per tumour. Larger tumours may require multiple ablations or a more prolonged heating phase to ensure thorough treatment.
- Post-Procedure Monitoring: After RFA, patients are monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. This includes vital sign checks, pain management, and follow-up imaging to confirm the ablation's effectiveness.
Recovery from RFA is generally quick compared to other liver treatments. Most patients experience mild discomfort or pain around the treatment site, which subsides within a few days. Full recovery and return to normal activities can often be achieved within a week, making RFA a favourable option for those seeking minimal downtime.
Benefits
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure is performed percutaneously, avoiding large incisions and resulting in shorter recovery time.
- Targeted Therapy: RFA allows precise destruction of tumour tissue without significantly affecting surrounding healthy liver tissue.
- Outpatient Procedure: Many patients can be treated and discharged on the same day, reducing hospital stay and costs.
- Reduced Recovery Time: Patients can typically resume normal activities within a few days to a week, compared to weeks of recovery after traditional surgery.
- Effective for Multiple Tumours: RFA can be used to treat multiple tumours in one session or over multiple sessions, providing flexibility in treatment.
Potential Destinations
1. India
India is a prominent destination for RFA of liver tumours due to its combination of advanced medical technologies, experienced specialists, and cost-effective treatments. Many hospitals are equipped with the latest imaging and ablation technologies, providing comprehensive cancer care at competitive prices.
2. Turkey
Turkey is known for its modern healthcare infrastructure and experienced oncologists specializing in liver tumour treatments. Medical facilities in cities like Istanbul offer state-of-the-art RFA technologies and a patient-centered approach, making it a preferred destination for those seeking high-quality care at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries.
3. Thailand
Thailand offers a strong healthcare system with numerous internationally accredited hospitals. RFA procedures in Thailand are performed by highly trained medical professionals who often have international experience. Additionally, Thailand’s reputation as a medical tourism hub is bolstered by its excellent hospitality and personalized patient services.
4. Mexico
Mexico, especially cities like Tijuana and Mexico City, is increasingly recognized for its specialized liver cancer treatments, including RFA. The country provides proximity for North American patients, making travel easier, while offering modern medical facilities and competitive pricing without compromising the quality of care.
5. South Korea
South Korea boasts some of the best cancer treatment centers globally, with cutting-edge technologies and highly trained specialists in RFA procedures. The nation's emphasis on innovation in medical technology and precision in treatment has made it a sought-after destination for those looking for advanced options for liver tumour ablation.
Risks & Considerations
- Infection Risk: As with any minimally invasive procedure, RFA carries a small risk of infection at the site of probe insertion. Proper sterilization and post-procedural care minimize this risk.
- Damage to Surrounding Structures: There is a potential risk of unintentional damage to nearby organs or blood vessels, particularly if the tumour is located near critical structures within the liver.
- Incomplete Ablation: In some cases, particularly with larger tumours or those in difficult locations, the ablation may not completely destroy all cancer cells, requiring additional treatments.
- Post-Ablation Syndrome: Some patients experience flu-like symptoms, including fever and malaise, within a week following the procedure. These symptoms are typically mild and resolve on their own.
- Local Recurrence of Tumours: There is a possibility of tumour recurrence in or near the ablation zone, necessitating close monitoring and potential follow-up treatments.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
When considering RFA for liver tumours, choosing a qualified and experienced physician is critical to ensure a successful outcome. Patients should look for doctors who specialize in interventional oncology or hepatology and who have extensive experience in performing RFA procedures. Verifying credentials, certifications, and success rates can provide insight into the doctor's expertise.
Selecting the right hospital is equally important. A facility equipped with advanced imaging and ablation technologies is essential for the precision and success of the procedure. Additionally, hospitals with comprehensive cancer care services offer the advantage of multidisciplinary treatment planning, allowing patients to receive all necessary care, from diagnosis to post-procedure monitoring, in one location.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
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