Liver Cancer Radiofrequency Ablation Recovery Time

Recovery after liver cancer radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is typically quick, with most patients being discharged within 2-3 days and fully recovering in about 7-10 days. In the past, surgical resection was the primary treatment for liver cancer. However, recent medical guidelines now recommend ablation techniques, especially for small liver tumors, due to their minimally invasive nature and faster recovery times.

Unlike traditional surgery, which often involves larger incisions and the removal of both cancerous and surrounding healthy liver tissue, RFA involves inserting a thin needle directly into the tumor. This targeted approach destroys the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue, resulting in less overall damage to the liver.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, but patients can usually begin eating again within 6 hours after surgery. Most patients are able to get out of bed and walk the day after the procedure and are discharged by the second or third day.

In the days following the procedure, it's common for liver enzymes to temporarily rise, but they typically return to normal within a week or two. While complications such as bleeding or infection are rare, they can occur and may extend the hospital stay if they require additional treatment.

Overall, radiofrequency ablation offers a less invasive and more liver-preserving alternative to surgery, making it an increasingly popular option for the treatment of early-stage liver cancer.