Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA)

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) are types of treatment that use heat to destroy cancer cells. 

Ablation treatments are sometimes used to treat very early-stage lung cancer and small kidney tumours. They can also be used when surgery may not be a suitable treatment option. 

They may be used for other types of cancer such as liver cancer and NETs.

You’ll be given a local anaesthetic and sedation before treatment begins. In some cases, a general anaesthetic is used instead. 

Your doctor will place a small needle-like probe into your tumour. This is usually done using a CT scanner to make sure the probe is in the right place. Radiowaves or microwaves are then passed down the probe into the tumour to heat and destroy the cancer cells.

You’ll usually need to stay in hospital overnight for these treatments.

It is common for people to have some pain or discomfort and to feel tired after RFA or MWA. You will be given painkillers to take home. 

RFA and MWA can be repeated if necessary.

These treatments are not available in every treatment centre.