Abstract
Thermal ablative technologies have evolved considerably in the recent past and are
now an important component of current clinical guidelines for the treatment of small
renal masses. Both radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation have intermediate-term
oncologic control that rivals surgical options, with favorable complication profiles.
Studies comparing cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation show no significant difference
in oncologic control or complication profile between the two modalities. Early data
from small series with microwave ablation have shown similar promising results. Newer
technologies including irreversible electroporation and high-intensity–focused ultrasound
have theoretical advantages, but will require further research before becoming a routine
part of the ablation armamentarium. The purpose of this review article is to discuss
the current ablative technologies available, briefly review their mechanisms of action,
discuss technical aspects of each, and provide current data supporting their use.
Keywords
small renal mass - cryoablation - radiofrequency - microwave - irreversible electroporation
- interventional radiology