Microwave Ablation

A minimally invasive treatment that uses electromagnetic energy to heat and destroy cancer cells with precision.

Direct Treatment at the Tumor Site

Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses electromagnetic energy to generate heat and destroy cancer cells. During treatment, an interventional radiologist or surgeon uses advanced imaging guidance, such as CT scans, ultrasound, or MRI, to precisely place a thin probe into the tumor. Once the probe is in position, microwave energy creates intense heat that destroys the tumor while minimizing damage to nearby healthy tissue. Depending on the tumor's size and location, multiple tumors may be treated during the same procedure.

Microwave ablation may be used to treat both primary and metastatic cancers, most commonly in the:

Liver
Lung
Kidney

At Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, microwave ablation is performed by experienced specialists using advanced imaging and treatment technologies. Our multidisciplinary team works together to develop personalized treatment plans, ensuring patients receive the most effective care based on their individual diagnosis and needs.

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Benefits of Microwave Ablation

Quick, Minimally Invasive Treatment

Microwave ablation is typically performed through a small incision using image-guided technology, allowing treatment to be completed in a relatively short amount of time compared to traditional surgery.

Treat Multiple Tumors in One Procedure

In some cases, physicians can target and treat more than one tumor during the same treatment session, reducing the need for multiple procedures.

Faster Recovery, Less Discomfort

Because microwave ablation does not require a large surgical incision, many patients experience less pain, shorter hospital stays, and a quicker return to daily activities.

An Option for Patients Who Cannot Have Surgery

Microwave ablation may be appropriate for patients who are not candidates for surgery due to the location of the tumor, underlying health conditions, or other factors.

Preserves Healthy Tissue

The targeted nature of microwave ablation allows physicians to destroy tumors while minimizing damage to nearby healthy tissue and surrounding structures.

What is microwave ablation and when is it used?

Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that uses heat to destroy cancer cells. Using CT scans or ultrasound for guidance, a physician places a thin probe into the tumor to target cancer while preserving nearby healthy tissue. It is commonly used to treat tumors in the liver, lungs, and kidneys, including both primary and metastatic cancers.

Microwave ablation may be recommended when:

A tumor is small and can be safely targeted with image-guided treatment.
Surgery is not a suitable option due to a patient's overall health or the location of the tumor.
Cancer has spread to a limited number of sites.
Additional treatment is needed alongside surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or other cancer therapies.

Your care team will evaluate your diagnosis, tumor characteristics, and overall health to determine whether microwave ablation is an appropriate treatment option.

What should I expect during the procedure?

Microwave ablation is typically performed using sedation or general anesthesia. Using CT scans or ultrasound, your physician guides a thin probe into the tumor and delivers microwave energy to destroy cancer cells. Patients generally do not experience pain during the procedure. After treatment, some mild soreness or discomfort may occur at the treatment site. Many patients return home the same day or after a short hospital stay and resume normal activities within a few days.

Who is a candidate for this treatment?

Microwave ablation may be an option for patients with small or limited tumors, those who are not candidates for surgery, or those seeking a minimally invasive treatment approach. Your care team will determine whether it is right for your specific diagnosis.

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