A needle inserted into a tumour, then heated to 100°C — that's radiofrequency ablation (RFA). It kills cancer cells instantly, with no large incision. The US tumor ablation market report by MRFR shows that radiofrequency is the largest technology segment, but microwave ablation is the fastest‑growing. The market is $367 million and will hit $1.25 billion by 2035, growing at 11.77% CAGR. Why the boom? Because patients want less invasive options, and ablation works.

What's driving growth? Liver cancer is the largest application, but kidney cancer is the fastest‑growing — as small renal tumours are increasingly found incidentally on CT scans. The US tumor ablation market analysis highlights that percutaneous ablation (through the skin) is the fastest‑growing treatment, because it's even less invasive than laparoscopic surgery.

What's new? Irreversible electroporation (IRE) — using electrical pulses to open pores in cancer cells, causing them to die. It doesn't use heat, so it's safer near blood vessels and bile ducts.

The bottom line: if you have a small liver or kidney tumour, ask about ablation. It's not for everyone, but when it works, it's a game‑changer.