In the case of a local attack on individual organ systems, these procedures can often achieve safe and effective destruction of the individual tumors and thus in most cases chemotherapy can be paused or surgery can be avoided/postponed. These procedures are mainly used in the treatment of metastatic tumors. Here, liver metastases or primary liver tumors, lung metastases, lymph node metastases of various tumor types, but leading metastases of colorectal cancer, represent the most frequent indication. In addition, it is also possible to treat primary tumors such as liver cell tumors (hepatocellular tumors), bile duct tumors (cholangiocellular tumors), or kidney cell tumors with good prospects of success.

First, the number, locations, and size of the tumors are assessed on the basis of current CT and/or MRI images (staging). The intervention itself is initially preceded by an examination of the indication on the basis of all available images and therapy histories. This is done in interdisciplinary consultation with the treating oncologists, surgeons, and radiotherapists, with the aim of integrating the intervention into a meaningful, holistic oncological concept.

If the possibility of a local ablative procedure has been determined after a detailed explanation and consultation, recording of all previous therapy data and the interdisciplinary indication, the (pre)inpatient admission to our ward (ward DR7, house 8) in the University Hospital of the University of Magdeburg takes place.

The actual procedure is always image-guided, usually CT-guided, alternatively sonographic or MRI guidance of the procedure is also possible. In preparation for the procedure, a venous access route is established to allow the administration of painkillers and sedatives before and during the procedure. The medication is administered both before and during the procedure, depending on the patient's discomfort. In the meantime, patients are continuously monitored by means of blood pressure, pulse and oxygen control.

General anesthesia is not usually required, but may be necessary in certain situations. This will be clarified in advance.

Depending on the size of the tumors and the patient's complaints, several tumors can also be ablated within one procedure. Repeating an operation several times is also possible without problems under certain circumstances (clinical condition of the patient, laboratory parameters, overall oncological concept).