Radiofrequency for the treatment of liver tumors

Radiofrequency is performed with thin electrodes that are placed in the cen ter of a tumor under ultrasonographic guidance. Radiofrequency waves induce ionic agitation which destroys neighboring tissues by heat. The most recen t equipment can produce necrosis of 4-cm diameter areas. Efficacy is enhanc ed by blocking intrahepatic blood flow which naturally refreshes the liver parenchyma. The technique has the advantage of minimal invasion and of spar ing liver parenchymal tissue. radiofrequency can be performed percutaneousl y or by laparoscopi or laparotomy. results in most reported series have bee n good with low morbidity. rapid improvment of material and of new associat ed procedures (vascular clamping, cooling infusion of the bile ducts, trans plaeurodiaphragmatic approach, combination with other new approaches in liv er surgery) are continuously modifying performance levels and potential ind ications curently under validation. radiofrequency, like other tools for lo cal tumor destruction, will greatly change our therapeutic strategies in th e neat future.