Imaging

Abstract

Editorial CommentLaparoscopic cryoablation of small renal tumors is still in development. The new cryo probes have increased the efficiency of cytotoxic effects to treat the renal lesions and decreased the rate of complications. So far, the technology has demonstrated to be efficient to treat renal tumors. The authors concluded that laparoscopic cryoablation is a potential alternative modality to laparoscopic partial nephrectomy or open partial nephrectomy for small renal tumors but the cryoablation technique requires a basic skill set in laparoscopic surgery, which makes this technique appealing for less experienced laparoscopic surgeons. Moreover, laparoscopic cryoablation may be associated with decreased risks of bleeding and urine leakage in comparison to laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Future comparative studies are needed to fully validate this technique but initial reports of oncological control are encouraging.