Tumor ablation for liver cancer

Ablation is best used for tumors no larger than about 3 cm across (a little over an inch).
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

This procedure uses high-energy radio waves for treatment. The doctor inserts a thin, needle-like probe into the tumor. A high-frequency current is then passed through the tip of the probe, which heats the tumor and destroys the cancer cells. This is a common treatment method for small tumors.

Ethanol (alcohol) ablation

This is also known as percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI). In this procedure, concentrated alcohol is injected directly into the tumor to kill cancer cells.

Microwave thermotherapy

In this procedure, microwaves transmitted through the probe are used to heat and destroy the abnormal tissue.

Cryosurgery (cryotherapy)

This procedure destroys a tumor by freezing it using a thin metal probe. The probe is guided into the tumor and then very cold gasses are passed through the probe to freeze the tumor, killing the cancer cells. This method may be used to treat larger tumors than the other ablation techniques, but it sometimes requires general anesthesia (where you are deeply asleep and not able to feel pain).

Side effects of ablation therapy

Possible side effects after ablation therapy include abdominal pain, infection in the liver, and bleeding into the chest cavity or abdomen. Serious complications are uncommon, but they are possible.

Read more: http://www.cancer.org/cancer/livercancer/detailedguide/liver-cancer-treating-tumor-ablation