title: Renal ablation update.
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.
authors: Coastal Radiology Associates, Department of Radiology, Carolina East Medical Center, New Bern, North Carolina.
authors: Vishal
authors: V
authors: Khiatani
authors: Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
authors: Robert G
authors: RG
authors: Dixon
keywords: cryoablation; interventional radiology; irreversible electroporation; microwave; radiofrequency; small renal mass