Tumour Ablation and Embolization

Tumour ablation and embolization are minimally invasive treatments used by interventional radiologists to target and destroy cancerous tumours. These procedures offer alternatives to traditional surgery and chemotherapy, with a focus on reducing side effects and recovery times.

Tumour Ablation

Tumour ablation involves destroying cancerous tissue using extreme heat or cold. The most common types of ablation include:

• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses high-frequency electrical currents to generate heat and destroy cancer cells.
• Microwave ablation: Similar to RFA, it uses microwave energy to heat and kill tumour cells.
• Cryoablation: Uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy cancer cells.
• Laser ablation: Utilises laser energy to heat and eliminate tumour tissue.

Tumour Embolization

Tumour embolization involves blocking the blood supply to a tumour, causing it to shrink or die. Types include:

• Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE): Delivers chemotherapy directly to the tumour while blocking its blood supply.
• Radioembolization: Combines embolization with radiation therapy by delivering tiny radioactive beads to the tumour’s blood supply.
• Bland Embolization: Blocks the blood supply without using chemotherapy or radiation.

Key Benefits of Tumour Ablation and Embolization

• Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions reduce risk of infection and shorten recovery time.
• Targeted Treatment: Directly targets the tumour, minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• Outpatient Procedures: Often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing for quicker return to daily activities.
• Pain Management: Typically involves less pain compared to traditional surgery.
• Customizable: Can be tailored to individual patient needs based on tumour size, location, and type.

Commonly asked by Patiemts

1. What types of tumours can be treated with ablation and embolization?
   These procedures are commonly used for liver, kidney, lung, and bone tumours, but may also be suitable for other types of cancers.
2. How long does the procedure take?
   Most procedures take between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and type of ablation or embolization.
3. Will I need general anaesthesia?
   Some procedures may require general anaesthesia, while others can be performed with local anaesthesia and sedation.
4. What is the recovery time?
   Recovery times vary, but many patients can resume normal activities within a few days to a week.
5. Are there any risks or side effects?
   While generally safe, potential risks include infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding tissues. Your doctor will discuss these with you prior to the procedure.
6. How effective are these treatments?
   Effectiveness varies based on tumour type, size, and location, but many patients experience significant tumour reduction and symptom relief.

Tumour ablation and embolization represent advanced, minimally invasive options for cancer treatment. These procedures offer targeted, effective ways to manage and treat tumours with less impact on your daily life. If you or a loved one is considering these treatments, consult with an interventional radiologist to understand the best approach for your specific situation.