Cryosurgical ablation of renal tumors using 1.5-millimeter, ultrathin cryoprobes

Abstract

Introduction. To describe an open technique for the cryosurgical ablation of small renal tumors using multiple ultrathin cryoprobes. Renal cryosurgery is an evolving surgical technique, and uncertainties exist regarding the ideal approach to freezing renal tumors. Technical Considerations. Using an open surgical approach, a 3-cm upper pole renal mass was ablated using five, state-of-the-art, 1.5-mm cryoprobes simultaneously under real-time ultrasound guidance. The technique is described and demonstrated in a multisegment, Internet-based video tutorial. The blood loss was minimal, and no intraoperative or postoperative complications were experienced. Follow-up imaging at 3 months suggested shrunken, nonviable tumor. Conclusion. Cryosurgical ablation of renal tumors using multiple 1.5-mm cryoprobes is a safe, feasible approach that may be associated with a decreased risk of bleeding.