Ablation of tumors is a minimally invasive treatment method used to destroy cancer cells using heat, cold, laser,
or other energy sources. Indications for performing tumor ablation include:

 

1. Hepatic Tumors

   • Primary liver tumors such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)

   • Liver metastases from other sources, such as colorectal cancer

   • Indications include small tumors, tumors that are not resectable surgically due to location or the patient's overall health condition
      

2. Renal Tumors

   • Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) of small size (up to 4 cm)

   • Tumors in accessible areas for ablation and patients unsuitable for surgery due to overall health condition
      

3. Lung Tumors

   • Primary tumors such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in early stages

   • Lung metastases from other sources

   • Candidates who are not suitable for lung surgery due to poor lung function or other medical reasons
      

4. Bone Tumors

   • Bone metastases causing uncontrolled pain

   • Primary bone tumors such as osteoid osteoma
      

5. Breast Tumors

   • Small primary tumors or metastases in lymph nodes

   • Patients who cannot undergo surgery for medical or cosmetic reasons

 

​

Tumor ablation is a minimally invasive treatment method that brings many benefits, such as
 

1. Minimal Invasiveness
   The treatment is performed using a probe been inserted percutaneously, as opposed to a more extensive surgical incision.This results in fewer risks of infection and bleeding and a shorter recovery time compared to open surgeries. Minimally invasive procedures cause less pain and discomfort post-procedure, thus requiring fewer pain-relieving medications. Additionally, the procedures require only a short hospital stay, and the return to normal activity is quick.
    

2. High Precision
   Advanced imaging technologies like ultrasound, CT, or MRI allow for highly precise targeting of the ablation to the tumor site, preserving surrounding healthy tissues and maintaining the function of the organ containing the tumor.
    

3. Repeatable Treatment
   In cases where the tumor recurs, the ablation procedure can be repeated multiple times as needed.
   Ablation can also be combined with other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.
   ​​

4. Treatment Option for Non-Surgical Patients
   Suitable for patients who cannot undergo open surgery due to poor health or other risk factors.
   
    

Despite these advantages, ablation is not suitable for all tumors.
The treatment is less effective for larger tumors and is more recommended for small tumors, typically up to 3-4 cm. Additionally, the anatomical location of the tumor is critical in deciding whether ablation can be performed safely.
 

As with any procedure, there are also potential complications, such as
 

1. Risk of Recurrence
   There is a risk of tumor recurrence, if ablation did not provide large secured margins,
   This risk can be minimized by using planning software and validation of the ablation area.
    

2. Local Side Effects
   Ablation can cause damage to nearby tissues such as bowel perforation, pneumothorax, or gallbladder injury.
   ​Local pain or temporary fever in the treatment area can also occur.
    

​Following ablation, frequent monitoring and imaging are required to ensure the ablation was successful and to determine if additional treatments are needed.