Ablation refers to local methods that destroy the tumor without removing it. These techniques are often used in patients with only a few small tumors that cannot be resected. They are not usually considered curative but may produce survival rates equal to surgery in people with small tumors. These treatments are often good options for patients whose disease cannot be cured with surgery. They are also sometimes used to treat cancers in patients waiting for a liver transplant. Ablation is not used for large tumors, it is best for tumors no larger than 2 cm (a little less than an inch) across.

Radiofrequency ablation

This procedure uses high-energy radio waves for treatment. A thin, needle-like probe is placed through the skin and into the tumor. Placement of the probe is guided by ultrasound or CT scans. The tip of the probe releases a high-frequency current that heats the tumor and destroys the cancer cells. This has become a major treatment method for small tumors.

Ethanol (alcohol) ablation

This is also known as percutaneous ethanol injection. In this procedure, concentrated alcohol is injected directly into the tumor to kill cancer cells. This is usually done through the skin using a needle guided by ultrasound or CT scans.

Microwave thermotherapy

In this procedure, microwaves are used to heat and destroy the abnormal tissue.

Cryosurgery (cryotherapy)

This procedure destroys a tumor by freezing it with a metal probe. The probe is guided through the skin and into the tumor using ultrasound. Then very cold gasses are passed through the probe to freeze the tumor, killing the cancer cells. This method may be used to treat larger tumors than the other ablation techniques, but it sometimes requires general anesthesia (where you are asleep).

Last Medical Review: 11/05/2009
Last Revised: 11/05/2009