Percutaneous transthoracic radiofrequency ablation of renal tumors using an iatrogenic pneumothorax

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2005 Jul;185(1):86-8. doi: 10.2214/ajr.185.1.01850086.

Abstract

Objective: We report on a new technique for percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of tumors in the upper pole of kidneys in the presence of intervening lung parenchyma.

Conclusion: Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of tumors in the upper pole of kidneys with intervening lung parenchyma can be accomplished successfully using a transthoracic approach through an iatrogenic pneumothorax. This technique allows for precise placement and repositioning of the radiofrequency electrode under CT guidance without repeated puncture of the visceral pleura.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / surgery*
  • Catheter Ablation / methods*
  • Electrodes
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Male
  • Pneumothorax, Artificial*
  • Radiography, Interventional
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed