EUS-RFA: A New Era in Pancreatic Tumor Treatment

Endoscopic Ultrasound–Guided Radiofrequency Ablation (EUS-RFA)
Pancreatic tumor remains one of the toughest tumors to treat due to its deep location and late diagnosis. For many patients who are not suitable for surgery, Endoscopic Ultrasound–Guided Radiofrequency Ablation (EUS-RFA) is emerging as an advanced, minimally invasive therapy that offers hope by targeting tumors precisely and safely.
 

What Is EUS-RFA?

EUS-RFA combines two powerful technologies:

• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Enables doctors to visualize internal organs clearly from inside the body.
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses controlled heat energy to destroy tumor cells without harming nearby healthy tissue.

 
During the procedure, a flexible endoscope with an ultrasound probe is inserted through the mouth into the stomach. Guided by real-time ultrasound imaging, the doctor inserts a fine needle into the pancreatic tumor, where radiofrequency energy heats and destroys tumor cells.
 

Benefits of EUS-Guided RFA

 

Feature	Traditional Surgery	EUS-RFA (Minimally Invasive)
Incisions	Large abdominal incision	No external incision
Anesthesia	General anesthesia	Light sedation
Hospital stay	5–10 days	1–2 days
Pain level	Moderate to high	Minimal
Recovery time	Weeks	1–3 days
Complications	Higher risk	Low risk
Precision	Limited by view	Real-time ultrasound guidance
Repeatability	Difficult	Can be repeated safely

 

Who Can Benefit from EUS-RFA?

EUS-RFA is a minimally invasive treatment option, but it does not replace surgery.
Surgery is still the main and most effective treatment for pancreatic tumors when it is possible and safe to do.
 
EUS-RFA may be an option for you if you have certain pancreatic conditions and want a less invasive treatment than surgery:

• Advanced pancreatic cancer (when surgery is not possible)
• Need for palliative treatment to relieve pain or symptoms
• Small pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs)
• Certain types of pancreatic cysts or precancerous lesions

 

At Bumrungrad International Hospital

At Bumrungrad International Hospital, EUS-guided pancreatic tumor ablation (EUS-RFA) is performed at the GI-Broncho Endoscopy Unit, certified by the Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program (EURP) under the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE).
 
As the first hospital in Thailand and Southeast Asia to earn this accreditation, Bumrungrad upholds the highest international standards of safety and quality. Our U.S.-trained endoscopists use advanced EUS and ablation technology to deliver precise, safe, and effective treatment.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the goal of EUS-RFA?
To destroy pancreatic tumor tissue using heat while preserving surrounding healthy organs and improving quality of life.
 
2. Is the procedure painful?
No. It is performed under sedation or anesthesia, so patients remain comfortable throughout.
 
3. How long does it take?
Usually between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the tumor size and number of lesions.
 
4. Can it cure pancreatic cancer?
EUS-RFA is not a cure but can shrink tumors, control symptoms, and enhance survival when combined with systemic treatments like chemotherapy.
 
5. What are the possible side effects?
Temporary abdominal pain, mild fever, or inflammation can occur but are typically short-term. Serious complications are rare in expert hands.
 
6. How soon can I return to normal activities?
Most patients resume daily routines within one or two days after the procedure.

 

Key Takeaways

• EUS-RFA offers a new option for patients who cannot undergo pancreatic surgery.
• The treatment is precise, minimally invasive, and safe.
• Bumrungrad Digestive Disease Center is among the few hospitals in Asia offering this advanced therapy.
• The procedure can relieve pain, reduce tumor size, and enhance overall quality of life.

 
For more information about endoscopic advances in the management of pancreatic cancer, please contact the Bumrungrad Digestive Disease Center.
 
By Asst. Prof. Dr. Veeravich Jaruvongvanich, Gastroenterology and Hepatology