Radiofrequency and Microwave Ablation, Liver

General

Synonym/Acronym:
RFA, RF ablation, MWA, rhizotomy.

Rationale
To assist in treating tumors of the liver that are too small for surgery or have poor response to chemotherapy.

Patient Preparation
There are no activity restrictions unless by medical direction. Instruct the patient to fast and restrict fluids for 8 hr, or as ordered based on the type of anesthesia to be used, prior to the procedure. Fasting may be ordered as a precaution against aspiration related to possible nausea and vomiting. The American Society of Anesthesiologists has fasting guidelines for risk levels according to patient status. More information can be located at www.asahq.org.

Normal Findings

  • Decrease in tumor size
  • Normal size, position, contour, and texture of the liver.

Critical Findings and Potential Interventions
N/A

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