Does radiology perform tumour ablation?

During ablation, the doctor guides a needle-like probe into the target using imaging. Energy delivered through the probe heats or freezes tumour tissue. Radiofrequency and microwave ablation are heat-based methods; the method offered depends on the tumour site, nearby structures and the wider treatment plan.

Ablation may be considered when a tumour can be reached safely without open surgery. The interventional radiologist works with oncology, surgery, anaesthesia and other specialists to judge whether the target and your overall health make this approach suitable.

Bring your current medicine list and relevant scans. Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, allergies, kidney or heart conditions, implanted devices and previous reactions to contrast or anaesthesia. Do not stop a prescribed medicine unless the treating team gives specific instructions.

Ask what form of anaesthesia or sedation is planned, where the probe will enter, how the treated area will be checked and what recovery support you will need at home. Follow the department's directions about fasting and transport after the procedure.

Use the discharge contact promptly for fever, worsening pain despite the recommended medicine, increasing redness or drainage at the entry site, repeated vomiting, or difficulty passing urine. Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding, collapse, confusion or sudden intense pain. The relevant warning signs can vary with the organ treated, so keep the procedure-specific instructions available.

Ask why ablation is being considered for this tumour, what imaging will guide it, which nearby organs need protection and what alternatives fit the same goal. Clarify how the team will assess the treated area afterward and which clinician should be contacted about symptoms during recovery.