Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
• Discharge
• Español

Cooled radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses radiofrequency waves to destroy tissue or nerves. A cool-tipped probe delivers radiofrequency waves to a targeted area of your body. The radiofrequency waves create heat to destroy the tissue or nerves causing problems. The probe is cooled with water to protect surrounding tissues. Cooled radiofrequency therapy can treat chronic pain, heart arrhythmias, or tumors.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US), or have someone call if:

• You feel lightheaded, dizzy, or weak.
• You have sudden trouble breathing or chest pain.

Seek care immediately if:

• Your heart starts beating fast, or you have palpitations at rest.
• Your arm or leg becomes red, swollen, and warm to the touch.
• Blood soaks through your bandage.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Call your doctor if:

• Your procedure area becomes red and painful.
• You have a fever.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

• NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Self-care:

• Rest as directed. Avoid heavy exercise or activity for a few days after your procedure. Your healthcare provider will tell you when it is okay to do your normal activities.
• Care for your procedure area as directed. Carefully wash the area with soap and water. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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