Frequent radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy in a case of lung metastases after surgery of bilateral metastases of renal cell carcinoma

Abstract

A 60-year-old male had received left nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma. Follow-up computed tomography (CT) revealed bilateral lung nodules and partial lung resection was performed. Histological findings revealed metastases of renal cell carcinoma. Six months after the operation, CT showed bilateral lung nodules. We performed CT-guided RFA therapies nine times on nineteen nodules. There were complications including pneumothorax and lung abscess. Although RFA may become a less invasive and more effective therapy for the local control of pulmonary malignant tumors, we should bear in mind the associated complications.