RF Ablation Therapy FAQ
A metastatic spinal tumor can occur when cancerous cells have spread from a primary location in the body, such as the breast, lung, or prostate, and grow in the vertebrae of the spine or the spinal cord.
Metastatic spinal tumors can weaken or fracture the vertebrae, causing varying levels of pain, from mild to severe. The onset of pain may be mild but increase rapidly. Using X-ray and MRI images of your spine, your physician can help you understand if a metastatic spinal tumor is the cause of your back pain.
A minimally invasive procedure using radiofrequency ablation therapy allows a physician to reduce the size of metastatic spinal tumors in a single treatment, thereby providing patients with rapid pain relief. The STAR™ Tumor Ablation System brings this therapeutic option to metastatic spinal tumors that have historically been difficult to access and treat in a minimally invasive procedure.
As with all surgical procedures, radiofrequency (RF) ablation therapy does have risks. These risks depend on the patient’s overall health. To determine if you are a candidate for RF ablation therapy, please consult with your doctor.
You’ll need to talk with your physician and, together, determine if you are a good candidate for radiofrequency (RF) ablation therapy.
The entire procedure often takes less than 90 minutes.
Recovery times for a minimally invasive procedure, such as radiofrequency ablation using the STAR Tumor Ablation System, are measured in hours and days rather than weeks and months. However, recovery time for each patient will vary. Your physician will monitor your progress and, together, will help you determine when you can safely return to your normal activities.