Radiofrequency Ablation for Lung Cancer

Overview
Radiofrequency ablation is a treatment approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for people with non-small cell lung cancer when surgery is not an option. It is typically used to treat small tumors on the outer edge of the lungs.

What does it involve?
Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses high-energy radio waves to heat the tumor. A needle probe is inserted into the skin and the tip is placed inside the tumor. After the needle is placed, electrical waves are sent through the needle into the tumor. This kills the cancer cells.

Radiofrequency ablation is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthetic.

Side effects
Side effects from radiofrequency ablation are uncommon and can include partial (and often temporary) lung collapse and bleeding into the lung. For a few days after the procedure, you may experience pain where the needle was inserted.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer — American Cancer Society
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lung-cancer/treat...