Private radiofrequency (RF) ablation procedure

Why might I need an RF ablation?

RF ablation is recommended for individuals facing specific medical challenges where traditional treatments may be limited. At HCA UK, we have a team of consultants who are skilled in providing radiofrequency ablation for a range of conditions. These include: 

Pain management

RF ablation can be effective for those who are experiencing chronic pain that cannot be managed through medication or other treatments such as physiotherapy. 

Conditions this could apply to include facet joint pain in the neck, shoulders and arms, or sacroiliac pain, near the hips. It's also helpful for those experiencing pain in the back, neck or knee; cancer pain; and facial pain, known as trigeminal neuralgia. 

Cardiac ablation

People with certain heart rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), may be candidates for cardiac RF ablation when medications fail to control the condition. 

Atrial fibrillation is a heart condition that causes an irregular, often fast heart rhythm and it's the most common form of cardiac arrhythmia. SVT is an abnormal heart rhythm that causes a sudden, rapid heartbeat. RFA can tackle conditions like these and get your heart beating correctly. 

Cancer treatment

RF ablation is extensively used in oncology to treat various types of cancers. In this context, it is often used for tumours that are difficult to access. The aim here is to destroy the cancerous cells.

For those with tumours that are not suitable for surgery or where surgery carries significant risks, RF ablation is primarily used. This procedure is particularly effective in treating some liver, lung and kidney tumours that cannot be treated with conventional surgery. 

Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses the heat from an electrical current to destroy cells in the body that are causing pain or exacerbating symptoms. 

How this works depends on the reason for the procedure.

Treating pain: High-frequency electrical currents produce thermal energy (heat) which is sent through one or more needles to damage nerves that are causing pain and stopping those signals being sent to the brain. As well as being used as a treatment for pain management, a radiofrequency ablation procedure can help to improve function in the affected area and prevent or delay the need for surgery.

Treating arrhythmia: Cardiac radiofrequency ablation is also known as catheter ablation therapy. Thin tubes will carry wires through veins or arteries in the groin or wrist and are moved to the correct position in your heart. Radiofrequency energy is then used to destroy the tissue in your heart that is causing the faulty heartbeat and preventing the incorrect signals from causing further issues by creating a barrier of scar tissue.

Treating cancer: During this RFA procedure, a specialised electrode (also known as a probe) is inserted into the tumour. Once the needle-like probe is in place, the high-frequency current heats the cells to high temperatures, destroying them. As well as causing the cells to die, RF ablation typically causes the tumour, nodule or other type of growth to shrink.

What happens during radiofrequency (RF) ablation treatment?

The mechanics of an RF ablation procedure vary depending on the specific medical condition being addressed. However, whether you are having the procedure for pain management, cardiac RF ablation, or cancer treatment, the general process remains consistent across different applications.

Preparing for RFA

Before the procedure, your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have. Generally, it can take up to an hour, but this will depend on your condition and the reason for the treatment. You'll be told how long the procedure is expected to take beforehand. 

You will also need to discuss your medical history, as well as previous surgeries or medications you are taking. You may also have an X-ray and a CT scan, to guide your medical team through the treatment:

• Cardiac ablation: Detailed mapping of the heart's electrical activity is performed before radiofrequency ablation on the heart. You will probably need to have imaging tests to show how your heart functions and determine what type of arrhythmia you have, so your cardiologist can decide the best treatment for you. These tests can include a chest X-ray, ECG, echocardiogram, CT angiogram and MRI.
• Pain management: If you're having RF ablation for pain management, it's likely that you will need an X-ray of the affected area, along with an MRI to determine the source of the pain and the nerve that will be targeted. 
• Cancer ablation: If you're having this procedure as a form of cancer treatment, your doctor may request blood tests and also an ECG to check your heart rate is regular. 

What anaesthetic will I have for an RF ablation procedure?

The type of anaesthetic you have will depend on the reason for the procedure. If you're having RF ablation for pain management or to treat arrhythmia, it is carried out with local anaesthetic and a mild sedative. In rare instances, you may be put under general anaesthetic.

The radiofrequency ablation process

• Insertion of the catheter or electrode: A catheter or electrode is carefully inserted into the targeted area. The insertion is guided by imaging techniques like fluoroscopy or ultrasound to ensure accuracy. Your consultant will carefully guide the catheter or electrode to the correct place, and they won't apply the electrical current until they have precisely lined up the needle. 
• Application of radiofrequency energy: Once the catheter or electrode is in the correct position, radiofrequency energy is delivered. This energy creates heat, which is carefully controlled to avoid damage to surrounding healthy tissues. You are unlikely to feel any pain during the procedure, although you may feel some pressure. A needle connected to a radiofrequency generator will create a small burn in the nerve tissue.
• Damage to cells or nerves: The applied heat causes localised tissue damage, forming lesions. In cancer treatment, this results in the destruction of malignant cells, while in pain management or cardiac procedures, it disrupts the targeted nerves or abnormal electrical pathways.
• Monitoring: Throughout the procedure, your vital signs and other key health indicators are closely monitored to ensure that you're safe and that the procedure is effective. 

If you have any questions about the radiofrequency ablation procedure, we're here to help. Contact us or see the list of frequently asked questions below for answers to the queries you might have.

What happens after radiofrequency ablation treatment?

You may be able to leave the facility soon after the procedure has taken place, although you will need someone to drive you home as the effects of anaesthetic wear off. 

Your consultant will be able to advise you on how to manage your recovery and when you can get back to your usual daily routines, which is likely to be within a few days. You may experience some pain following the procedure, due to residual spasms from muscles and the site of the ablation. Your healthcare team will discuss how to manage any discomfort, as well as advising any painkilling medication you may need.