What Is Microwave Ablation?
Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive treatment used to destroy abnormal tissue, most commonly tumors, using microwave energy. Microwave energy is a form of electromagnetic radiation that generates heat. When delivered into tissue, it rapidly heats water molecules within the tumor. Once the tissue reaches a sufficiently high temperature, the tumor cells are destroyed.
The term ablation refers to the intentional destruction of tissue. Microwave ablation therefore means destroying targeted tissue using controlled microwave energy.
What Does Microwave Ablation Treat?
Microwave ablation is primarily used to treat tumors. It is most commonly performed for cancers that originate in the liver or cancers that have spread to the liver from other parts of the body, such as colorectal cancer. In select cases, microwave ablation may also be used to treat tumors in other organs.
Types of Fibroids
Intramural Fibroids
Common type, grow within the muscular wall of the uterus, causing uterine enlargement.
Subserosal Fibroids
Create a bulge and pressure on surrounding organs on the uterus’s outer surface.
Submucosal Fibroids
Develop beneath the inner lining, protruding into the uterine cavity, leading to heavy menstrual bleeding.
Pedunculated Fibroids
Grow on a stalk inside or outside the uterus, causing symptoms based on location.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Menstrual Irregularities
Weighty and prolonged periods, longer or more frequent menstrual cycles, pelvic pressure or pain during periods.
Urinary and Digestive Issues
Frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation
Abdominal Changes
Growing stomach area
Pain and Discomfort
Pain in the stomach area or lower back, discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Serious Complications (Rare)
Sudden, severe pain if fibroids outgrow their blood supply and begin to die.
FAQ
1. Am I a Candidate for Microwave Ablation?
Microwave ablation is an option for many patients, with relatively few limitations. The best way to determine whether this treatment is appropriate is through a consultation with one of the physicians at Vascular and Interventional Partners.
During your initial visit, your medical history will be reviewed, imaging studies will be evaluated, and your treatment goals will be discussed. Based on this assessment, your care team will recommend the most suitable treatment plan. While microwave ablation is often an excellent choice, alternative therapies may be recommended if they better match your condition.