Ablation of Small Renal Masses

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Oncology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Renal cell carcinoma is often diagnosed in older adults, many with comorbidities precluding surgery.
• Historically, surgical extirpation was the standard for small renal masses.
• Minimally invasive ablative therapies address surgical limitations in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review percutaneous image-guided thermal ablation for small renal masses.
• To discuss commonly used ablative modalities like radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation.

Main Methods:

• Review of percutaneous image-guided thermal ablation techniques.
• Focus on radiofrequency ablation, cryoablation, microwave ablation, and irreversible electroporation.

Main Results:

• Percutaneous thermal ablation is recommended by 2017 AUA guidelines for masses < 3 cm.
• This method offers excellent local tumor control and preserves renal function.
• Benefits include fewer complications, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous thermal ablation is a viable and advantageous treatment for small renal masses.
• It provides a safe and effective alternative to surgery, especially for elderly patients.
• Radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation are key modalities in this field.