Lung nodules are small masses of tissue located inside the lungs, ranging in size from a few millimeters to 3 centimeters across. While most nodules are harmless, some can be high-risk or cancerous. Larger nodules may also obstruct airways, making breathing difficult. Smaller nodules often go unnoticed until they cause problems.
How are lung nodules treated?
Usually, low-risk lung nodules are followed up or treated with medication, while high-risk and cancerous nodules may require surgery for removal. Traditionally, open thoracic surgery or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) remains the preferred surgical method. However, both approaches come with risks associated with cutting into the body and staying in the hospital for days afterward. Some patients are unable to withstand this due to poor health. For those patients, lung ablation has emerged as an alternative option, using advanced technology without external incisions.
What is lung ablation?
Lung ablation, also called pulmonary ablation, is an interventional procedure. It involves using heat or cold energy to destroy damaged tissue in the lungs and promote healing. It can help treat lung conditions such as lung nodules, lung cancer, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and interstitial lung diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
What are the types of lung ablation?
The most commonly used ablation techniques today are thermal ablations such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA). During RFA, a thin electrode is inserted through a bronchoscope into the affected area of the lung. The electrode then delivers high-frequency electrical energy to the surrounding tissue, which causes cell death and promotes scar formation. Microwave ablation is similar, except that microwaves are used.
Another type of lung ablation is cryoablation, which uses extreme cold temperatures to freeze and kill off damaged cells.
Ablation is usually done on an outpatient basis under sedation or general anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
Why choose lung ablation?
Lung ablation is gaining traction because it avoids the risks associated with open surgeries. Instead of slicing through muscle and skin, doctors insert a tiny probe directly into the lung where the nodule resides. Once positioned correctly, the device emits either radio frequency waves, microwaves or liquid nitrogen to destroy the troublesome mass. Since no incision needs made externally, patients enjoy faster recovery times than before. Most return home the same day following the procedure.
Conclusion
Lung ablation provides a safe and effective alternative treatment for lung nodules and other lung conditions. If you have questions or concerns about this procedure, consult your doctor to determine if it’s the right option for you.