Microwave Ablation
Microwave Ablation
Tumors used to be best treated by surgery. In many patients, surgery is not possible or recommended. Now microwave ablation allows physicians to treat tumors without the need for major surgery. Through a small nick in the skin, a small probe is placed from outside the body through a tumor. The tumor tissue can then be completely destroyed without the need for surgery.
What Is Microwave Ablation?
The easiest way to understand microwave ablation is to break down the phrase into two separate parts. “Microwave” refers to the type of energy that is used in the treatment. They are a specific type of electromagnetic wave that is shorter than a standard radio wave but longer than infrared radiation. Microwaves can heat up the water molecules inside a tumor. If the tissue becomes hot enough it will be killed or destroyed. Ablation is a medical term for tissue destruction. Microwave ablation simply means to destroy tissue using microwave energy.
Am I a Candidate for Microwave Ablation?
Fortunately, there are very few limitations placed on patients who would like to undergo microwave ablation. The only way to know if microwave ablation is a good option for you is to schedule a consultation with ViP and be seen by one of our physicians. During your initial consultation at ViP, we will review your medical history, examine your condition, and listen to your treatment goals.
Once we have conducted the review, we will work with you to determine the best treatment plan. In many cases, microwave ablation is a top choice, but if there is a better fit for you, we will let you know.
Our goal is your good health, and we are happy to answer all your questions or address your concerns so you are comfortable moving forward in the process.
How Should I Prepare for Microwave Ablation?
Microwave ablation is minimally invasive, which means there is no lengthy preparation process. You may be asked to adjust medication or supplements to ensure you are safe during the procedure, but your routines and lifestyle will generally remain the same. In some cases, we might have you conduct some blood work or other screening. This is a precautionary step that is taken to make sure you are not at risk of developing complications from the procedure.
What Should I Expect from a Microwave Ablation Procedure?
The microwave ablation process is pretty straightforward. You will receive localized anesthesia and IV sedation or anesthesia care. The probe is then positioned through the tumor with imaging guidance. Once it is in position, the microwave emitter in the probe will be turned on and release microwaves into the surrounding tissue. The microwaves will heat up the tissue of the tumor, destroying the targeted tissue. After the tumor is destroyed, the probe is removed and the tract is cauterized to prevent bleeding.
What Should I Expect During Microwave Ablation Recovery?
The majority of patients experience minor pain after the procedure. This can usually be treated with Tylenol.
What Results Can I Anticipate from Microwave Ablation?
Microwave ablation is very effective at destroying tumors. Follow-up imaging with a CT or MRI will be obtained 1 month after the procedure to ensure that the tumor is completely destroyed.
Why Choose ViP?
When you are having a procedure performed, you should always look for the best. At ViP, our team consists of fellowship-trained Interventional Radiologists who built the largest ablation program in the State and have decades of combined experience. We will provide you with the best possible care.
Microwave Ablation in Phoenix, AZ
If you are interested in finding out more about how microwave ablation can help solve your conditions, give our office a call at (480) 435-9100. You can also fill out our online contact form to have someone from our office reach out to you at a more convenient time. We are looking forward to being the resource you need during this decision-making process.