SALISBURY ― A new state-of-the-art cancer treatment — microwave ablation — is now available at Novant Health Rowan Medical Center.

Microwave ablation uses heat generated by microwave energy to treat tumors in sensitive tissues including the liver, lungs and kidneys.

The microwave ablation procedure is performed at Rowan Medical Center by Dr. Paul Capito, an interventional radiologist with Mecklenburg Radiology Associates.

“I am pleased to offer patients here in Rowan County the same cutting-edge technology utilized at our nation’s top academic and research institutions,” Capito said.

In the procedure, Capito uses a CT scan or ultrasound imaging to determine the location of the lesion. He then inserts a thin probe through the skin to precisely locate the tumor. The high-frequency microwave energy is turned on, and the probe delivers intense heat that kills the cancerous cells but does not harm healthy tissue surrounding the tumor.

As a minimally invasive procedure, microwave ablation is less traumatic to the body than other cancer treatments, including surgery.

“Patients generally experience a faster recovery and are able to leave the hospital the same or following day,” Capito said.

For more information about microwave ablation at Rowan Medical Center, call 704-210-5844.