Microwave Tumor Ablation

Microwave ablation (MWA) is a technique to destroy tumors and soft tissue using microwave energy to create thermal coagulation and localized tissue necrosis. Microwave ablation is used to treat tumors not amenable to resection and to treat patients ineligible for surgery due to age, comorbidities, or poor general health. Microwave ablation may be performed as an open procedure, laparoscopically, percutaneously, or thoracoscopically under image guidance (eg, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging) with sedation, or local or general anesthesia. This technique is also referred to as microwave coagulation therapy.