T1a renal cancer cryoablation : first experiences in Poland

Purpose: Cryoablation is one of the methods of treating patients with renal cancer with curative intent. This procedure is not widely available in Poland due to the lack of reimbursement until April 2023. The purpose of this study is to present the results of the first experiences in cryoablation of renal cell carcinoma in Poland. Material and methods: Patients with renal cell carcinoma in T1a stage (up to 4 cm in diameter) were treated with percutaneous cryoablation between December 2020 and December 2023. All patients were disqualified from surgical treatment due to age, comorbidities, or history of nephrectomy. Diagnosis was confirmed by computed tomography (CT)-guided core needle biopsy that was performed 2-4 weeks before cryoablation. Results: Twenty-five patients underwent CT-guided cryoablation of T1a renal cancer. The mean age of the patients as 77 years (43-91 years). The mean diameter of lesions was 27 mm (15-40 mm). None of the patients presented with local or distant recurrence within the mean 12-months of follow-up period (100% progression-free survival). Urine leak treated with a stent was detected in one patient. Four patients died within the follow-up period, but none of the deaths was directly related to the procedure. Conclusions: Cryoablation is an effective and safe procedure and should be available to more patients in Poland.