What is a common side effect of thermal ablation procedures?

Mild to moderate pain at the treatment site is a common side effect associated with thermal ablation procedures. This discomfort can arise due to the heat generated during the ablation process, which is intended to destroy tissue by increasing its temperature. The pain typically resolves within a short period and can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication.

Understanding this side effect is important as it helps set patient expectations following the procedure. In contrast, other choices involve more severe complications or concerns that are not as frequently associated with thermal ablation. For example, while infections can occur in any surgical procedure, the risk of infection with thermal ablation is not significantly higher than with traditional surgical methods. Similarly, severe internal bleeding and an immediate need for long-term rehabilitation are less characteristic of thermal ablation, which is designed to be minimally invasive and usually allows for quicker recovery times.