Current status of renal radiofrequency ablation.
OBJECTIVE
To provide an overview of the current literature addressing the role of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the management of renal cortical tumors.


RESULTS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Carraway
William A
WA
Division of Urology, Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA.
Raman
Jay D
JD
Cadeddu
Jeffrey A
JA
D002292:Carcinoma, Renal Cell / Q000628:therapy*; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000639:trends*; D006801:Humans; D007677:Kidney Function Tests; D007680:Kidney Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome