Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Extravascular Tissue Ablation
• Technical Term: Catheter, Extravascular Tissue Ablation, any Modality (Insertable) (C1886)

Summary

Extravascular tissue ablation using a catheter involves using a specially designed device inserted through a small incision to target and destroy specific tissues outside the blood vessels. This can be done using various methods including radiofrequency, laser, or cryoablation.

Purpose

The procedure is used to treat abnormal tissues, such as tumors, fibroids, or other growths outside the blood vessels. The goal is to eliminate or reduce the problematic tissue, relieve symptoms, and improve the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Abnormal growths or tumors not accessible via intravascular methods.
• Symptomatic fibroids or other non-malignant tissues causing pain or bleeding.
• Patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery due to health risks.

Preparation

• Patients may be asked to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medications may need to be adjusted, particularly blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure tests may include blood work, imaging studies like MRI or CT scans, and an overall health assessment.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under local or general anesthesia depending on the specific case.
2. A small incision is made to insert the catheter.
3. The catheter is guided to the target tissue using imaging techniques like ultrasound or fluoroscopy.
4. Once in place, the tissue is ablated using the chosen method (radiofrequency, laser, or cryoablation).
5. The catheter is removed and the incision site is closed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and the location of the tissue being treated.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital, surgical center, or specialized outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Interventional radiologist or surgeon
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Nursing staff and/or other specialized medical professionals

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the insertion site
• Bleeding or bruising
• Damage to nearby tissues or organs
• Pain or discomfort at the treatment site
• Rare complications might include blood clots or adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Minimally invasive alternative to open surgery
• Reduced recovery time
• Targeted treatment of abnormal tissues with precision
• Symptom relief and improved quality of life can be expected shortly after recovery

Recovery

• Patients typically can go home the same day or after an overnight stay.
• Post-procedure instructions may include pain management, care for the incision site, and monitoring for signs of infection.
• Recovery time varies but most patients return to normal activities within a few days to a week.
• Follow-up appointments will be necessary to ensure effective treatment and monitor for complications.

Alternatives

• Open surgical resection
• Medication-based management
• Other minimally invasive procedures like endovascular treatments
• Each alternative has its own risks and benefits, which should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

• Some discomfort or mild pain during and after the procedure can be expected.
• Post-procedure, patients may feel tired and experience mild soreness at the incision site.
• Pain management strategies, including medications and physical rest, are typically effective in managing any discomfort.