Volume and Shape Assessment of Renal Radiofrequency Ablation Lesion

To evaluate the microscopic characteristics and quantify the volume of a radiofrequency ablation (RFA) lesion.

Ten male pigs were submitted to laparoscopic RFA. An RFA needle was introduced in the lower pole of the left kidney to create a lesion expected to be a sphere of 2.0 cm diameter. The animals were followed up for 21 days. Kidneys were weighed and the volume was assessed using Scherle's method. Cavalieri's principle was used to assess the RFA volume, and sphericity was calculated to assess RFA lesion. One sample t test was used to compare RFA volume with the volume of a sphere of 2.0 cm diameter, and sphericity to hypothetical values of a sphere and an icosahedron. Fragments of RFA region were histologically evaluated.

Three animals developed postoperative complications and were excluded from the analyses. There was no difference in the mean weight and volume between right and left kidneys following RFA. The mean total volume of RFA injury was 3.44 cm³. There was no difference in the RFA volume in comparison with hypothetical volumes of a sphere and an icosahedron of 2.0 cm diameter. Sphericity of the RFA injury was not similar with a sphere; however, it was similar to an icosahedron. Histology revealed areas of coagulation necrosis, fibrosis, and inflammatory mononuclear infiltration. Areas with normal tissue were also observed.

The volume of injury caused by RFA was as expected and its shape was comparable with an icosahedron. Microscopic evaluation revealed areas of normal-appearing tissue.