Laser Photoablation Of Renal Pelvic Tumours

Main Category: Urology / Nephrology
Also Included In: Cancer / Oncology;  MRI / PET / Ultrasound
Article Date: 13 Oct 2008 - 1:00 PST

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BERKELEY, CA (UroToday.com) - This is a case series describing the use of a dual wavelength (wavelength shifted) Neodymium:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser used for renal sparing surgery to treat transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis.

This laser was developed at the University of Alberta with the aim of having coagulating and ablating wavelengths. The rationale for this was the ability to coagulate the tissue rendering it non-viable prior to ablation. In addition the ablating wavelength allowed treatment of stones.

These 4 cases where chosen to exemplify the success and failure of such treatment. We describe some rare complications and interesting background to this type of treatment. The ureteroscopic approach was associated with less complications and a more rapid recovery. Ureteroscopic application of lasers for tumor control in superficial TCC of the renal pelvis is a feasible option in the appropriate population.

The advantages of retrograde treatment of renal pelvic transitional cell tumors are documented in this case series. These include decreased morbidity and blood loss, shorter periods of hospitalization and no risk of nephrostomy tract seeding when compared to the percutaneous management. The ability of dual wavelength along with ureteric access appears to be advantageous in dealing with these rare lesions.

Written by Bryce Weber, MD, as part of Beyond the Abstract on UroToday.com.

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