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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Otolaryngology

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses radiofrequency thermal energy to remove or reduce tissue to improve or restore respiratory function and alleviate obstruction and other related symptoms. It is commonly used to treat Thyroid Nodules, Chronic Sinusitis, Sleep Apnoea, Nasal Congestion, and specific vocal cord lesions.

Use of Radiofrequency Energy: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) utilizes high-frequency radio waves to deliver heat energy. The energy is precisely transmitted to the target tissue through a small probe.
Tissue Heating: Radiofrequency energy induces a thermal effect in the target tissue, typically between 60 to 70 degrees Celsius. This controlled heating leads to coagulation and denaturation of tissue proteins, resulting in tissue shrinkage and hardening.
Precise Control: RFA allows for accurate treatment of specific lesion areas, avoiding damage to surrounding normal tissues.
Minimally Invasive Nature: RFA is a minimally invasive treatment method compared to traditional surgical procedures. Patients only require local anaesthesia, and there is no need for large incisions, reducing patient pain and recovery time.
Tissue Repair: After RFA treatment, the affected tissue is gradually replaced by the body's natural repair processes, improving or eliminating disease symptoms.

Uses of RFA

Treatment of Chronic Sinusitis	Use radiofrequency energy to reduce the tissues surrounding the blocked sinuses, improving sinus ventilation and drainage.
Reducing Nasal Septum	For nasal congestion caused by a deviated septum, radiofrequency ablation can be used to reduce obstructive septal tissue.
Treatment of Sleep Apnoea	RFA can reduce obstructive throat tissues, such as the soft palate and tongue base, thereby alleviating sleep apnea symptoms.
Removing Throat Lesions	RFA can also remove or reduce small lesions in the throat, such as polyps or cysts.
Treating Benign Thyroid Nodules	By inserting electrode needles into the thyroid nodules and releasing alternating current, the molecules in the surrounding tissue will generate heat through friction. Then, the local tissue will undergo coagulative necrosis due to the heat, thereby reducing the thyroid nodules.

Advantages of RFA

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) has several advantages in the treatment of otolaryngologic diseases, including:

Minimally Invasive Nature:
RFA is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that requires only local anaesthesia compared to traditional open surgery and does not require large incisions. It reduces patient discomfort and surgical risks.
Quick Recovery:
Due to the minor surgical trauma, patients typically have a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery, allowing them to return to normal activities more quickly.
Precise Treatment:
RFA allows doctors to target the treatment area precisely, ensuring only the targeted tissue is affected while surrounding healthy tissue remains undamaged.
Less Pain and Side Effects:
Postoperative pain and discomfort after RFA are typically much lower than with traditional surgery, and there are fewer postoperative side effects.
Improved Treatment Efficacy:
For certain conditions, such as deviated septum or chronic sinusitis, RFA can provide long-lasting treatment effects, reducing the need for repeat surgeries.
Reduced Risk of Complications:
The minimally invasive nature means a lower risk of infection and other surgery-related complications.
Applicable to Various Diseases:
RFA can be used to treat a variety of otolaryngologic diseases, including but not limited to benign thyroid nodules, sleep apnoea, chronic sinusitis, and deviated septum.
Suitable for a Wide Range of Patients:
Including those at risk for traditional surgery, such as elderly individuals or those with certain health conditions.