Combination, Single-Session Transarterial Embolization with Ethiodized Oil Staining and Percutaneous Microwave...

This study assessed outcomes of a single-session treatment combining transarterial embolization (TAE) with ethiodized oil staining and computed tomography (CT)-guided microwave ablation (MWA) for 7 patients with central renal cell carcinoma (RCC) (mean modified RENAL score, 10.7 [SD ± 0.8]). Three patients had metastatic RCC and demonstrated local tumor control over a mean follow-up of 18.3 months (SD ± 11.2) before dying. Four patients had Stage I RCC and received curative-intent treatment with durable responses for 29.8 months (SD ± 8.7). The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate declined 6 months after treatment. Although this was not statistically significant (P = .13), the study was not powered to detect small or moderate changes in renal function. One patient developed a Grade III adverse event requiring nephrostomy. Overall, TAE-MWA appeared technically feasible for treating central RCC, demonstrating a manageable safety profile in a high-risk cohort with limited therapeutic alternatives. However, caution should be exercised when treating tumors with high nephrometry scores.