Thermal Ablation

Thermal ablation targets the aldosterone-producing lesion while sparing surrounding adrenal tissue. Left-sided ablations use endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation. Right-sided ablations use CT guidance with microwave or radiofrequency ablation selected by the interventional radiologist. Ablation participants receive alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor blockade before the procedure to reduce hypertensive emergency risk. Ablation can cause catecholamine release with severe hypertension and tachycardia, a risk not shared by laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Thermal ablation is being studied as a less invasive adrenal-sparing alternative for unilateral primary aldosteronism.