MONITORING RENAL CRYOSURGERY: PREDICTORS OF TISSUE NECROSIS IN SWINE

Abstract

Temperature monitoring using thermocouples during porcine renal cryosurgery demonstrated complete homogeneous necrosis of tissues reaching -19.4C or lower. Distance beyond 16 mm. from the cryoprobe and direct visualization of the iceball proved to be less reliable predictors of tissue necrosis. Management of bleeding post-thaw was necessary in every case.