Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used for treating tumours. It uses an image-guided technology that destroys cancer cells using heat. It uses the help of ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to place an electrode on cancerous cells. It sends high-frequency electrical currents through the electrode, creating focused heat that kills the cancer cells around it.
Before surgery: The doctor will numb the area either with local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia. It depends on the condition of the patient.
During surgery: A tiny incision is made on the skin. It is made in the area where the electrode needs to be placed. Through the incision, a laparoscopic plastic tube is inserted. Using the guidance of a camera, the needle electrodes are inserted at the tumour site. Once the procedure is done, the electrodes are removed, and the incision is closed. This procedure is known as laparoscopy.
After surgery: The patient may feel drowsiness or slight pain later.
The RF Ablation cost can range significantly from approximately Rs. 60,000. It depends on several factors, including the specific surgical technique, the length of the hospital stay, the severity of the condition, and the surgeon’s experience.
Description | Cost |
---|---|
Average Cost of surgery in Hyderabad | Rs. 60,000 |
Average Cost of surgery in India | Rs. 70,000 |
Surgery details | Description |
---|---|
Number of days in the hospital | Around 1 to 2 days |
Type of surgery | Major |
Type of Anaesthesia | General or local |
Number of days required to recover | A few days |
Duration of the procedure | 30 minutes |
Type of surgical options available | Minimally invasive |
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RF ablation is an innovative way to treat benign and malignant tumours. In some cases, after a close follow-up, RF ablation can also treat small cancers.
After RF ablation, the patient may typically experience pain for around 1 to 3 weeks after the procedure. It is recommended to rest for a few days before going back to the regular routine.
RF ablation is done under local anaesthesia in an office or outpatient setting. Doctors may give the patient medicines to help in relaxing and numbing the area. In such cases, the patient can stay awake.
It is normal to have pain for a few days after the procedure, as some nerves can be damaged. But, after a few days, the pain will reduce.
If it is an outpatient procedure, the patient will be able to walk out of the hospital within half an hour after the RF ablation procedure. However, it is not advisable to drive home as the anaesthesia may cause drowsiness, dizziness, etc.
Some people can experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, etc. These may happen for a few days after the procedure. To treat those symptoms, the patient may use Tylenol. However, it is advised to consult the doctor first.
Normally, this procedure can be done once or twice a year. If the patient has not had any relief after the procedure, the RF ablation can be repeated after three to four weeks. The time should be given to let the nerve cells regrow, minimising the damage.
Rf ablation is a very safe procedure. The mortality due to RF ablations is extremely uncommon. Also, the survival rate depends on the condition for which the patient is being treated.