Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) destroys small liver tumours with thermal energy, avoiding major incisions. This is why it's often chosen in South Korea. This minimally invasive approach avoids the surgical trauma of resection. It is highly effective for patients with preserved liver function or early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma.
- Procedure method: Surgeons insert a thin needle probe directly into the tumour using ultrasound guidance.
- Clinical suitability: RFA is ideal for localised tumours under 3 cm or recurrent cancer cases.
- Recovery speed: Most patients require only an overnight stay compared to weeks for surgical resection.
- Complication profile: Minimal side effects include mild abdominal soreness or nausea instead of major morbidity.
Bookimed Expert Insight: South Korean centres like Severance Hospital operate at massive scales, with over 40,000 surgeries annually. This high volume means interventional radiologists are exceptionally skilled at precisely placing RFA needles. RFA costs $6,200 to $9,500. However, it avoids the intensive post-operative care costs required for open liver surgery.
Patient Consensus: Patients find the experience much easier than expected with very little downtime. They appreciate the precision of imaging technology and the ability to return home quickly from Seoul hospitals.