Current status of renal radiofrequency ablation

William A. Carraway, Jay D. Raman, Jeffrey A Cadeddu

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

37 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose of review To provide an overview of the current literature addressing the role of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the management of renal cortical tumors. Recent findings As the renal RFA experience continues to mature, longer-term data addressing the oncologic efficacy of this ablative modality are now available. Furthermore, the impact of RFA on secondary clinical endpoints, such as renal function outcomes, has now been addressed in several series. Summary With the stage migration toward diagnosis of smaller renal masses, energy ablative techniques are being increasingly utilized as primary surgical modalities. Here, we review the role of RFA for the management of such masses and comment on technical considerations for this particular ablative technique. In addition, we provide a summary of contemporary longer-term oncologic outcomes and review the impact of RFA on renal function. As more renal masses are diagnosed in the elderly or comorbid patients, it is likely that ablative approaches will assume an increasingly central role in management strategies. In this regard, continued studies are necessary, particularly in regards to oncologic outcomes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)143-147
Number of pages5
JournalCurrent opinion in urology
Volume19
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2009

Keywords

  • Kidney
  • Oncologic outcomes
  • Radiofrequency ablation
  • Renal function
  • Thermal ablation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Urology

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