Pneumodissection: An Alternative Protective Technique for the Percutaneous Cryoablation of Small Renal Masses

Introduction: Percutaneous cryoablation is an emerging treatment option for the small renal mass. It poses a risk of thermal injury to adjacent tissues, limiting its application. We describe pneumodissection, a novel technique for preventing thermal injury during percutaneous cryoablation. Materials and Methods: The cases of 4 patients who underwent percutaneous renal cryoablation and pneumodissection were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Pneumodissection mechanically separated four tumors from overlying bowel segments (mean distance 1.2 ± 0.4 cm), permitting successful cryoablation. There were no complications or recurrences with 7.5 months of follow-up. Conclusions: Pneumodissection is a feasible displacement technique that facilitates percutaneous cryoablation in at-risk patients. Further study is warranted.