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. 2025 May 20;28(6):112703. doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.112703

Table 2.

Comparison of the advantages, disadvantages and molecular mechanisms of ablation techniques

Technology type Principle Advantages Disadvantages Molecular mechanisms in the central region Molecular mechanisms of transitional regions
RFA Radio frequency alternating current (60°C–100°C)
  • 1.

    Electrode conformity is good.

  • 2.

    Can protect the peripheral organs.

  • 3.

    Early development, currently widely used
  • 1.

    Highly affected by thermal convection
  • 1.

    Hyperthermia-induced changes in cell membrane fluidity and permeability; impaired substance transport.

  • 2.

    Hyperthermia-induced changes in mitochondrial morphology and function, and impaired energy metabolism.
  • 1.

    Leakage of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs; DNA, RNA, HSPs, etc.) triggers programmed cell death and the activation of the intrinsic immune response.

  • 2.

    Cytokine release and activation of adhesion factors caused by the destruction of the extracellular matrix around the tumor.
MWA Microwave electromagnetic field (60°C–150°C)
  • 1.

    High energy, large range, rapid ablation.

  • 2.

    Small thermal deposition effect, suitable for large perivascular ablation.
  • 1.

    The application was developed late and needs promotion.
Laser Ablation Photonic-to-thermal energy conversion (the temperature cannot be determined)
  • 1.

    Precisely directed via optical fiber catheters, enabling controlled ablation boundaries.65

  • 2.

    Minimal tissue carbonization occurs during photonic-to-thermal energy conversion.
  • 1.

    Limited ablation range: the single ablation volume is relatively small (8–10 mm).66

  • 2.

    Lower efficiency: a prolonged treatment duration and susceptibility to tissue heterogeneity.
Cryoablation Heat absorption by gasification (−140°C to 20°C–40°C, argon–helium, or −196°C–80°C liquid nitrogen)
  • 1.

    Rarely causes local pain, suitable for patients with pleural and periosteal tumors.

  • 2.

    The boundaries of the ice sphere are clear.
  • 1.

    Depletes the patient’s platelets and is not suitable for patients with poor coagulation function.
  • 1.

    Freezing of extracellular water induced transient extremely low temperatures; the formation of a local osmotic gradient and a solution effect leading to cell membrane disruption.

  • 2.

    Local microvascular constriction around the tumor, causing ischemic cell necrosis.
  • 1.

    Cellular autophagy triggers the exposure of tumor-associated antigens, further leading to specific antitumor immunity.