Ablative Techniques
Ablative Techniques are treatments aimed at destroying small tumors without removing them. Newer, less-invasive techniques for the treatment of kidney cancer are always being investigated. In some cases, small (less than 2 centimeter) tumors can be treated by destroying the tumor locally and not removing it. This is most commonly accomplished by destroying the tumor using highly-focused heat (Radiofrequency ablation), or by freezing the tumor (cryotherapy). Recently the destruction of tumors using ultrasonic waves has also been investigated (HIFU).
My Take
Although ablative techniques may be less invasive, they may be less effective, as well. Except in selective cases, the recurrence rate of the cancer is higher with these techniques than with more traditional approaches. These techniques are typically used in treating Peripherally-located, small tumors measuring no more than 2 centimeters. Ablative techniques are most commonly considered for patients who are otherwise poor surgical candidates.