Percutaneous irreversible electroporation of a renal tumor: Anesthetic management

Percutaneous irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a novel tumour ablation method. The application of short and high-voltage electrical pulses to the target lesion induces alterations in cell membrane permeability, finally causing tumour cell death. The extremely high-voltage that is needed in this technique requires the surveillance and management of an experienced anaesthesiologist, as it involves a significant risk of complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias or seizures. The case is presented of a 66 year-old patient diagnosed with a renal adenocarcinoma, and who received without intention-to-cure IRE under general anaesthesia. This case represents the first time this type of technique is used in Spain.