Liver tumour ablation in Karlsruhe

Which liver tumours can be ablated?

The type of disease and the number, size and location of lesions are important. Remaining liver function, cancer elsewhere in the body and previous treatments also matter. Ablation may be considered for certain primary liver tumours and selected metastases from other tumours.

Proximity to biliary tracts, intestines, or other delicate structures can limit treatment. The diagnosis "liver metastasis" alone therefore does not yet give a recommendation for ablation.

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Microwave ablation and Radiofrequency ablation

In microwave ablation (MWA), a probe generates heat in the target tissue. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses high-frequency electrical current to do this. The choice of technique depends on the findings and treatment plan.

Ultrasound or computed tomography help guide positioning and monitoring. The aim is to treat the tumour with an appropriate safety margin while protecting surrounding structures. Pain management, anaesthesia and monitoring are planned beforehand.

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How is it decided between ablation and other therapies?

A local treatment must fit the overarching therapy goal. Depending on the disease, surgery, drug tumor therapy, radiation or vascular procedures such as TACE and SIRT are considered. A combination can also be useful.

An ablation may remain incomplete or become necessary again later. Risks include Bleeding, infections and injuries to biliary tracts or neighbouring organs. A small skin opening does not mean that the procedure is risk-free.

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Control treatment outcome and course

Appropriate imaging is used to assess whether the planned area has been treated. Further examinations look for recurrence or new lesions. The team selects the type and timing of follow-up according to your disease.

Care by oncology, hepatology or other specialties remains important. Therefore, please not only bring the last radiological findings, but also previous therapy decisions and, if necessary, Multidisciplinary tumour board recommendations.

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Frequently asked questions to Liver tumour ablation