Current Status of Sonographically Guided Radiofrequency Ablation Techniques

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article was to review the current clinical applications of sonographically guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) techniques. METHODS: Publications regarding RFA extracted from a computerized database (MEDLINE) and from references cited in these articles were reviewed to evaluate the clinical effect and patient outcome. RESULTS: Radiofrequency ablation has shown some promising effects in the treatment of tumors in various parts of the body. The recent advances in RFA technology enable larger volumes of treatment and make RFA clinically practical. It is most often used for hepatic and renal tumors, and applications for other organs and structures are increasing and rapidly developing. Sonography provides a convenient way to guide and monitor the procedure in most situations. CONCLUSIONS: Effectiveness of RFA in the treatment of tumors in various body parts has been achieved. Radiofrequency ablation should be considered as an alternative or complementary method in the integration of oncologic management to obtain the greatest benefit to patients.