DEVELOPMENT OF A RADIOFREQUENCY BASED THERMAL THERAPY TECHNIQUE IN AN IN VIVO PORCINE MODEL FOR THE TREATMENT OF SMALL RENAL MASSES

Abstract

Radiofrequency thermal therapy is an effective and efficient method for ablating normal renal tissue in the pig. It may be applied percutaneously under ultrasound guidance with minimal complications provided that vital adjacent structures are protected from thermal damage. Further studies are required in humans before adopting this technique as definitive treatment for small renal cell carcinoma.