[Conservative treatment of kidney cancer by cryoablation and radiofrequency]

Cryoablation and radiofrequency are minimally invasive techniques allowing resection of the tumour by application of physical means (cold or heat) to the centre of the lesion, rather than strictly surgical resection. The incision is usually percutaneous but can be laparoscopic in certain indications. Indications are currently limited to exophytic renal tumours < 40 mm, situated away from structures of the hilum (vessels and renal pelvis) and gastrointestinal structures in patients > 70 years or in the context of previously operated hereditary renal carcinoma (von Hippel Lindau disease). The results of the first series are encouraging, although more contradictory for radiofrequency probably due to the heterogeneous equipment (electrodes, generator, frequency, etc.). The complication rate is low. A PHRC national multicentre randomized study is currently underway to compare the functional and oncological results of radiofrequency and conservative surgery.