The Comprehensive Cancer Center

Interventional Radiology:
Image-Guided Tumor Ablation Services

Will I be exposed to radiation during the procedure?

Radiofrequency (RF) waves, like x-rays, microwaves, and visible light, are a part of the electromagnetic spectrum. However, RF waves are much lower in energy and too weak to affect the chemical structure of cells or cause genetic damage. Unlike x-ray radiation, radiofrequency waves do not adversely affect the immune system.

If your procedure requires CT scan to guide the probe placement, then you will be exposed to a small dose of radiation similar to the diagnostic tests you may already have had to diagnose the tumor and monitor treatment.

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