Lung Cancer

Ablative Therapies

Cryo-, Radiofrequency, Alcohol, and Microwave Ablation

If a tumor is not able to be surgically removed, tumor ablation by an interventional radiologist might be a good option for treatment.

Ablation is performed with real time imaging, by placing a skinny probe through the patient’s skin and into the tumor.

Depending on the type of technology the radiologist decides to use, the tumor can then be killed using one of several different mechanisms.

Ablative therapy is often indicated in smaller tumors and is typically performed under general anesthesia.

Ablative procedures are commonly performed to target tumors in the liver, kidneys, lungs, and bones.

Cryoablation
An extremely cold gas is emitted from the probe, creating an ice ball around the tumor and freezing the tumor cells.

Radiofrequency Ablation
A high-frequency current is emitted from the probe, heating the tumor and destroying the tumor cells

Alcohol Ablation
Concentrated alcohol is injected from the probe, destroying the tumor cells

Microwave Ablation
Microwaves are transmitted through the probe, heating the tumor and destroying the tumor cells.

 

For more information, including questions about referrals, please contact us at:

(616) 459-7225

Or, visit our Contact page.


Additional Online Resources:
The Interventional Initiative
Society of Interventional Radiology
Radiology Info for Patients



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