General Information

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Vertebroplasty

Hepatic Artery Chemoembolization

Radiofrequency Ablation

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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
RFA is a technology that safely heats of "cooks" tumors using radiofrequency induced temperature changes. RFA produces heat-generated coagulation of targeted tissues resulting in tumor necrosis of tumor "death." The procedure is performed under CT scan and Ultrasound guidance. Through a tiny nick in the skin in the right lower chest, a probe is placed directly into the liver tumor. Once in the proper position, the wires are deployed and the interstitial heating process begins. Heating is applied for about 10 minutes. The probe is withdrawn and the procedure is over. Subsequent CT scans are performed a few times a year to monitor results and for possible new growth. This technique is currently applied to monitor results and for possible new growth. This technique is currently applied to the liver only and is performed on patients who are otherwise poor surgical candidates or who do not wish to undergo major abdominal surgery. Patients with primary liver cancers as well as cancer that spread to the liver (metastasis) are considered candidates. The procedure's major strength includes its minimally invasive approach without requiring open surgery. Like surgery, however, it is potentially curative.

FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS

Q. What are varicose veins?
A. Varicose veins are abnormal bulging veins below the skin surface that are unsightly and often painful. They frequently cause swelling and discomfort in the legs, especially during periods of prolonged standing. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to permanent skin changes and sometimes ulceration.

Q. Are varicose veins only a cosmetic concern?
A. The appearance of varicose veins and spider veins (these are the smaller and more common variation of varicose veins) is the concern. However, varicose veins cause aching pain and discomfort. This condition may lead to serious problems if not treated.

Q. What new non-invasive techniques are available to treat varicose veins?
A. Surgery was the traditional treatment for varicose veins, but it’s invasive, moderately painful and has a slightly longer recovery period. Surgery requires the use of anesthesia, leaves a scar and a few incisions.

One of the newest non-invasive techniques in varicose vein removal is endovenous laser treatment (EVLT). The EVLT procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, requires no incisions, and usually lasts less than an hour. An interventional radiologist, a doctor specially trained in performing minimally invasive treatments using imaging guidance, can perform EVLT.

Q. How does the EVLT procedure work?
A. With EVLT, laser energy minimizes the vein walls, shrinking them and closing the faulty vein so that the blood cannot flow through it. This eliminates the bulging of the vein at its source. After the treatment, the blood in the faulty veins will be diverted to the many normal veins in the leg.

The procedure leaves no visible scarring. There is minimal postoperative pain, and a quick recovery period gains immediate relief from symptoms. It is well documented that EVLT has a 98% initial success rate with excellent long-term results.

For more information on EVLT and varicose vein removal, visit InvisVein.