Overview

Tumor Ablation is an advanced, image-guided procedure used to treat select kidney cancers without removing part or all of the kidney.

Rather than surgically removing the tumor, ablation destroys cancerous tissue using precisely controlled heat or cold delivered directly into the tumor.

For appropriate patients, this approach can provide effective local tumor control while preserving healthy kidney tissue and reducing recovery time.

How Tumor Ablation Works

Using advanced imaging guidance:

1. CT or ultrasound imaging is used to locate the tumor.
2. A specialized ablation probe is inserted through the skin.
3. Heat (microwave ablation or radiofrequency ablation) or cold (cryoablation) is delivered directly to the tumor.
4. Cancer cells are destroyed while minimizing injury to surrounding tissue.

The procedure is performed through a small access site without the need for major surgery.

Benefits of Tumor Ablation

Compared with traditional surgery, tumor ablation may offer:

• No large surgical incision
• Preservation of healthy kidney tissue
• Reduced recovery time
• Outpatient or short-stay treatment
• Less disruption to daily activities
• Option for patients who may not be ideal surgical candidates

For many patients, preserving kidney function is a major advantage.

What to Expect

Before the Procedure:

• CT or MRI review
• Consultation and treatment planning
• Laboratory testing
• Coordination with referring physicians
• Pre-procedure instructions

During the Procedure:

• Sedation or anesthesia
• Image-guided placement of the ablation probe
• Targeted treatment of the tumor
• Typical procedure time of 1–3 hours

After the Procedure:

• Observation and recovery
• Same-day discharge or overnight stay
• Follow-up imaging to confirm treatment success

Recovery Timeline:

• Return to light activity within several days
• Gradual return to normal activity
• Follow-up imaging over the following months
• Ongoing monitoring of kidney function

Who is a Good Candidate

Tumor ablation may be appropriate for patients who:

• Have a small kidney tumor
• Need to preserve kidney function
• Have medical conditions that increase surgical risk
• Prefer a minimally invasive treatment option
• Have tumors that can be safely accessed using imaging guidance

Clinical Considerations

Tumor ablation is performed by interventional radiologists with specialized expertise in image-guided cancer treatment.

Treatment recommendations depend on tumor size, location, pathology, kidney function, and overall health.

Treatment recommendations are developed in coordination with your oncology team and are designed to complement—not replace—comprehensive cancer care.