Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of renal cell carcinoma: preliminary results

PURPOSE: To report early results in percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of renal cell carcinoma with an expandable RF probe. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In 14 patients (9 male, mean age 67.9 +/- 9.9 years) CT-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of 15 renal cell carcinomas was performed using an expandable LeVeen probe (diameter 2-4 cm) and a 200-watt generator under general anesthesia and CT control. Tumors exceeding a diameter of 3 cm (n=6) were embolized within 24 h prior to RFA. Average tumor size was 3.0 +/- 1.0 cm. RESULTS: RFA was technically successful in all patients, resulting in a mean size of necrosis of 3.7 +/- 0.7 cm. With the exception of one reno-cutaneous fistula, which was successfully treated conservatively, no major complications were observed. No local recurrence was observed (follow-up: 13.9 +/- 12.4 months) while extrarenal tumor progression occurred in four patients. CONCLUSION: Our preliminary data suggest that nephron sparing percutaneous RFA of renal tumors with an expandable RF probe is safe and effective.