Concepts, considerations, and concerns on the cutting edge of radiofrequency ablation

Radiofrequency (RF) ablation is rapidly expanding from a tool to treat isolated hepatic malignancy to a therapy for patients with renal, adrenal, skeletal, breast, lung, and other soft-tissue neoplasms. The purpose of this article is to review the status of RF ablation outside the liver and lung and compare outcomes with current clinical standards when appropriate. The author also reviews how differences in local tissue environments play a role in creation of a thermal lesion and achievement of subsequent clinical success.