Table 10

Factors affecting radiofrequency lesion generation

Radiofrequency elementElectrophysiological principle
Distance from active tipHeat generation=1/(radius from active tip)220
  • Tissue heating decreases rapidly with increasing distance from the active tip.

RFA current intensity*Heat generation=(current density)14
  • Heat generated from RFA is directly proportional to current density.

  • Current intensity has a strong influence on tissue heating.

Duration of RF applicationThe duration of heating influences lesion size.
  • *Tip size as determined by the gauge of the needle and the length of the active tip influences RF current intensity.

  • RF, radiofrequency; RFA, radiofrequency ablation