Image-guided biopsy and radiofrequency ablation of renal masses

Most renal masses are now identified on cross-sectional imaging examination s. The differentiation of a benign from a malignant mass is difficult, and a biopsy is sometimes required. In addition, many patients with solid neopl asms are not surgical candidates, and conventional treatment options such a s chemotherapy have limited efficacy. Minimally invasive ablative technique s such as radiofrequency (RF) ablation provide new treatment options for pa tients with small renal cell carcinomas. This article will review the epide miology of renal cell carcinoma and the indications and technique of renal mass biopsy, as well as discuss the new technique of RF ablation and its ap plication to solid renal neoplasms.