Radiofrequency ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses heat made by radio waves to kill cancer cells.

Laser treatment

A laser is a very thin, focused beam of light.  It heats the tissue to high temperatures, destroying abnormal cells. Lasers can focus very accurately on tiny areas.

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a treatment that aims to kill cancer cells with high frequency sound waves. HIFU doesn't pass through solid bone or air, so it's not suitable for every cancer.

Photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy is a treatment for non melanoma skin cancer and an experimental treatment for some other types of cancer.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a treatment that uses extreme cold to destroy cancer cells. It's a treatment for some early cancers and some precancerous conditions.

Ultraviolet light treatment

Ultraviolet light is a treatment for a type of skin cancer called T cell lymphoma. One type of UV treatment is called PUVA (psoralen plus ultraviolet A).

Electrochemotherapy for cancers affecting the skin

Doctors use electrochemotherapy for cancers that started in the skin or have spread to the skin.

Last reviewed: 
31 Jan 2022
Next review due: 
31 Jan 2025