Thermal ablation of lung tumors

Candidates for thermal ablation of lung tumors are usually individuals with small, localized lung tumors who are not candidates for surgery due to various reasons such as poor health or tumor location.

Preparation for the treatment may include a review of medical history, imaging studies such as CT scans or PET scans to precisely locate the tumor, and discussions with the medical team about the procedure and potential risks.

During the treatment, the patient may receive general anesthesia or local anesthesia, depending on the method used and the size and location of the tumor. A needle or probe is inserted into the tumor, guided by imaging techniques such as CT or ultrasound, and then heat or cold is applied to destroy the cancerous cells.

Results of thermal ablation of lung tumors vary depending on factors such as tumor size, type, and location, as well as the overall health of the patient. Many patients experience a reduction in tumor size and improvement in symptoms after the procedure. However, there may be risks of complications such as pneumothorax (collapsed lung), bleeding, or infection.

Precautions include monitoring the patient closely during and after the procedure to detect any complications promptly. It is also essential to provide post-procedure care and follow-up appointments to assess treatment effectiveness and monitor for any recurrence of the tumor.