Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation is often required to treat cancerous tumours in patients with colon cancer. Radiofrequency ablation uses high-energy radio waves to destroy cancerous tumor cells. A CT or ultrasound scan is used to guide the surgeon to the tumor using a thin probe. The probe is placed in the tumor and high-frequency radiowaves are transmitted by electric current. The radio waves cause damage to the tiny blood vessels which feed the growing cancer cells. The tumor tissue will die from a lack of blood flow. This is called coagulative necrosis. In conjunction with colon cancer surgery, radiofrequency ablation can be used to destroy tumors that have spread into other tissues and organs.
