Ablation Therapy

What Is Ablation Therapy?

When a patient has abnormal tissues in their body, the gastroenterologists may suggest treating the problem with something called ablation therapy. Specialists typically perform this type of therapy as a means to remove or destroy diseased tissue during endoscopy.

There are many different types of ablation therapy in use today that can be used for removing small tumors, treating blood vessels, and removing Barrett’s esophagus. The methods that the doctors use can vary quite a bit, even though the basic goal of the therapy remains the same. It is possible to destroy the tissue utilizing various forms of energy or freezing therapies. Let’s take a closer look at some of these forms of ablation therapy that are often used for conditions such as Barrett’s esophagus.

Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy (RFA)

Those who are suffering from Barrett’s esophagus have a change to the lining of their esophagus. The cells there change and become more similar to the cells of the intestine. There is the potential for this to develop into cancer, and one of the methods of treating this problem is radiofrequency ablation therapy.

This type of therapy has been shown to be effective and safe for the patients. The patient receives sedation before the procedure begins. RFA delivers localized energy to the esophagus through a catheter placed down the throat. This energy will help to destroy the problematic tissue, while keeping the healthy tissue as safe as possible.
In most cases, you will find that the procedure will take about 20 to 60 minutes to be completed. However, this can vary based on the patient. RFA has proven to be quite effective in preventing the formation of esophagus cancer. In many patients healthy tissue will replace the diseased tissue in about 3-4 weeks after RFA therapy.

Cryoablation Therapy

Another type of ablation therapy in use for Barrett’s esophagus, as well as other types of tissue removal, Cryotherapy utilizes extreme cold temperature as a means to remove the tissue. The endoscope will go into the patient’s throat and then spray the tissue that needs removal with liquid nitrogen. This allows for precise freezing and destruction of diseased tissue. Cryotherapy overall is a safe procedure, however some patients can experience chest pain, as well as narrowing of the esophagus. However, this is rare, and most of the issues tend to vanish a few days after the treatment.

Ablation therapy in Dallas & Fort Worth, Tx

Are you interested in learning more about ablation therapy, Barrett’s esophagus, or other treatment options? We invite you to contact us to learn more. Dr. Prashant Kedia MD is a therapeutic endoscopist and gastroenterologist serving patients in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond. Call today to schedule an appointment at (214) 941-6891.

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