Ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for treating small renal masses

The objective of this study was to analyse and assess the experience with radiofrequency ablation of small renal masses using a contrast-enhanced, ultrasound-guided percutaneous approach for patients who are not suitable for surgical resection and/or who refused surveillance or observation.

From January 2007 to August 2015, 164 treatments were performed on a total of 148 patients. We present the patients' clinical-radiological characteristics, oncological and functional results in the short and medium term.

The overall technical success rate was 97.5%, with a successful outcome in 1 session in 100% of the lesions≤3cm and 92% in lesions measuring 3-5cm. The mean tumour diameter in the patients for whom the treatment was ultimately successful was 2.7cm, while the mean diameter of these in the unsuccessful operations was 3.9cm (P<.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the serum creatinine levels and estimated glomerular filtration rates.

Despite the low rate of positive renal biopsies in the series, ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for treating small renal lesions appears to be an effective and safe procedure with a minimum impact on renal function, an acceptable oncologic control in the short and medium term and a low rate of complications.