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Semin intervent Radiol 2014; 31(01): 033-041
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1363841
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Percutaneous Ablation of the Small Renal Mass—Techniques and Outcomes

Andrew J. Gunn
1   Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School
,
Debra A. Gervais
2   Division of Abdominal Imaging and Intervention, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 February 2014 (online)

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Abstract

An increasing number of T1a renal cell carcinomas are being diagnosed in recent years, in part due to incidental detection from the increased use of cross-sectional imaging. Although partial nephrectomy is still considered the primary treatment for these small renal masses, percutaneous ablation is now being performed as a standard therapeutic, nephron-sparing approach in patients who are poor surgical candidates. Clinical studies to date have demonstrated that percutaneous ablation is an effective therapy with acceptable outcomes and low risk in the appropriate clinical settings. This article will review various clinical aspects regarding the percutaneous ablation of small renal masses, including patient selection, preprocedural preparations, and the procedural considerations of commonly employed ablative technologies. Specific techniques such as radiofrequency ablation, cryoablation, microwave ablation, irreversible electroporation, and high-intensity focused ultrasound will be addressed in detail. In addition, the technical and oncologic outcomes of percutaneous ablation will be discussed and referenced to that of partial nephrectomy.

Keywords

renal mass - percutaneous ablation - radiofrequency ablation - cryoablation - interventional radiology
 

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