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Published on: June 8, 2018
Irreversible electroporation (IRE): a novel method for renal tissue ablation
Chad R Tracy1, Wareef Kabbani, Jeffrey A Cadeddu
1Department of Urology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA. chad-tracy@uiowa.edu
BJU International
|November 4, 2010
Summary
Irreversible electroporation (IRE) causes predictable cell death in porcine kidneys within an hour, with urothelial sparing. Further studies are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of this novel ablation technology.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Surgical Technology
- Histopathology
Background:
- Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is an emerging ablation technology.
- Assessing the effects of IRE on renal parenchyma and collecting system is crucial for clinical translation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the histological effects of irreversible electroporation (IRE) on the renal parenchyma and collecting system.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of IRE in a porcine model.
Main Methods:
- Laparoscopic irreversible electroporation (IRE) was performed on eight female Yorkshire pigs using monopolar or bipolar devices.
- Kidneys were harvested between 10 minutes and 14 days post-ablation for gross and histological analysis, including NADH staining for cellular viability.
Main Results:
- All pigs survived without complications; 24 ablations were performed.
- Gross lesions decreased in size, evolving from hemorrhagic areas to small scars over 14 days.
- Histological analysis revealed predictable cellular death within 1 hour, with urothelial repair observed by 14 days.
Conclusions:
- Renal IRE induces characteristic histological changes indicative of cellular death within 1 hour.
- The urothelium shows relative sparing and signs of repair post-IRE.
- Further animal studies are necessary to establish the safety and efficacy of IRE for renal applications.
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