Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses high energy radio to shrink precancerous cells. It’s also used for chronic pain, irregular heartbeat, and venous insufficiency.
Doctors sometimes also use RFA to treat osteoarthritis, joint pain, and degenerative disc disease.
Radiofrequency ablation may be a viable alternative for many individuals because it has fewer risks and a shorter recovery time than open surgery.
Here’s what you may want to know about the technique, including its effectiveness and what the procedure entails.
During radiofrequency ablation, a doctor
This probe is attached to electrodes, or devices containing wires that carry the radio waves in the form of electricity. As the radiofrequency waves enter the body, they kill nearby cells or nerve fibers. As the body’s immune system gradually removes these dead cells, the targeted tumors, nodules, or other unwanted growths shrink.
In the case of chronic pain, RFA can be used to disrupt the transmission of pain signals in nerve fibers. For conditions like atrial fibrillation, it can be used to burn areas of the heart, creating scar tissue that disrupts abnormal electrical signaling.
To accurately target the treatment area, the doctor may first need to use an imaging technique like an ultrasound or CT scan to determine the optimal location.
Radiofrequency ablation has a range of applications, including:
- shrinking abnormal growths or tumors
- managing chronic back or neck pain
- managing pain caused by arthritis, fibromyalgia, sciatica, cancer, kidney stones, or other conditions
resolving chronic venous insufficiency in the legs- treating atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
Though RFA is sometimes used to treat very mild, small cancerous growths, it’s usually reserved for the treatment of benign or precancerous growths. When used for cancer, it’s only done in very specific settings with close monitoring and follow-up.
In a 2022 review, researchers noted that RFA may be recommended when other more conservative treatments aren’t effective. It also may be a good option before attempting more invasive forms of treatment, such as surgical removal of tumors.
Before
Before the procedure,
- to undergo any necessary diagnostic tests
- your doctor to explain the procedure and answer any relevant questions
- to be asked to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking for a period of time prior to the procedure
- to potentially be asked to avoid taking certain medications
During
During the procedure, you may expect:
- to undergo local anesthesia to numb the affected area
- to undergo an imaging test to ensure accurate probe placement
- a small incision to be made into the skin in order to insert the RFA probe
- radiofrequency energy to be applied to the target area for about
60 to 90 seconds
After
After the procedure, you can expect to:
- most likely return home the same day
- resume your normal activities within a day
- experience slight bruising or soreness where the probe was inserted
- potentially use over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication to manage any pain or discomfort
RFA is generally
That being said, some potential risks and side effects include:
- infection or bleeding at the insertion site
- swelling or bruising at the insertion site
- temporary weakness or numbness in treatment area
- with thyroid RFA, a small risk of voice changes that may be permanent
- allergic reactions to dyes or medications used during the procedure
- rarely, skin burns and injuries to motor neurons
Most people can resume their normal activities within a day after the procedure.
Though research is ongoing, RFA has been found to be an effective treatment for various conditions in several studies, including:
- Knee osteoarthritis: A
2022 study of over 1,000 people with knee osteoarthritis found RFA to be effective and safe for improving knee function and reducing pain. - Degenerative disc disease: A small 2020 study of people with degenerative disc disease found that RFA may be helpful in reducing pain.
- Atrial fibrillation: In a 2024 study of people with atrial fibrillation who underwent RFA, 82% had no atrial arrhythmia, and 90% were able to stop taking anti-arrhythmic medication after 1 year.
- Sacroiliac joint pain: A 2023 study of people with sacroiliac joint pain (which causes low back pain) found cooled RFA to be more effective at reducing pain than standard medical management. Cooled RFA is a subtype of RFA that uses internally cooled electrodes and can target larger areas.
How painful is it?
Since local anesthesia minimizes pain and discomfort during the procedure, RFA is generally well-tolerated. Though pain tolerance varies from person to person, mild pain post-operatively can typically effectively be managed with OTC pain medication.
How long does recovery take?
Most people can resume their usual activities within a day but always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
How much does RFA cost?
RFA cost may depend on several factors, including the issue being treated, the treatment area size, and where you’re undergoing the procedure.
In a 2018 study, researchers found RFA for varicose veins to cost about $1,465 CAD (about $1,074 USD) per patient, which is about $110 to $220 more than the price of open surgery on the veins. While RFA tends to cost more, researchers noted that it’s equal in efficacy to surgery and with fewer risks and complications.
Keep in mind that medical costs can be much higher in the United States.
A 2023 study found RFA to cost about $5,000 (out of pocket) per treatment for the treatment of thyroid nodules. Over the course of 21 years, people paid an average of $15,563. By comparison, a lobectomy to treat the nodules costs over $19,000.
Medicare Part B or your insurance may cover the costs of RFA.
Radiofrequency ablation offers a minimally invasive option for treating various conditions, from chronic pain to tumors. Compared to many types of open surgery, it tends to have a much shorter recovery time and a lower risk profile.
As with any medical procedure, it’s a good idea to discuss the potential benefits and risks with the doctor to determine if it’s the right choice for you.