RF/microwaves [medical applications]

Radio frequency (RF) and microwaves have been used in many new applications in medicine, in the field of cardiology, microwaves are used to treat arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) and blocked coronary arteries. Urologists use similar systems to treat obstruction of urine flow due to an enlarged prostate. RF is being used by ear-nose-and-throat specialists to treat airflow obstructions responsible for snoring and sleep apnea. In the future, surgeons may use microwave energy to assist in liposuction procedures and perform tissue welding. New applications are constantly under development. This article reviews how heat generated by RF/microwave energy is utilized to modify a variety of biological tissues.