Microwave Ablation (MWA) | Uniclinic Frankfurt, Germany

Microwave tumor ablation (MWA) is a minimally invasive treatment method that can be used to treat primary and secondary tumors. This method involves destroying the tumor from the inside using heat generated by a special microwave probe. Our institute uses microwave ablation to combat tumors in the lungs and liver, among other parts of the body. During the procedure, the probe is inserted into the tumor under CT control. The generator connected to the probe produces electromagnetic oscillations, which stimulate the hydrogen molecules in the tumors. The friction created ultimately generates heat, which destroys the tumor from the inside. Compared to surgical therapy, this type of treatment can preserve more functional tissue in patients suffering from lung and liver cancer, which in turn improves their quality of life. Radiologists usually prefer the percutaneous puncture approach, which involves pushing a probe through the skin to the location where the therapy is to be carried out. This is because complications rarely occur with this type of approach, and only local anesthesia is required. After injecting the local anesthesia, a small incision of around 2 mm is made in the skin, and the patient is given a sleeping pill via venous access. The probe is then inserted into the target region under computer tomography control, and the heating of the tumor by microwave ablation takes place. Depending on the case, the procedure takes around 30 to 60 minutes. Once the procedure is completed, the radiologist removes the probe and obliterates the puncture canal. Patients stay in our monitoring ward for around four to five hours, after which they can leave. In cases where tumors recur, microwave ablation can be repeated. Regular follow-up care is carried out at three-month intervals in the form of CT or MRI scans to ensure that all tumor tissue has been destroyed. Any newly occurring tumors and any complications can also be discovered.