Any experiences with Cryoablation for renal cell carcinoma (RCC)?

I had a similar situation. A mass on my left kidney that we surveiled for a couple of years . During that time we watched it grow from 1cm to 2 cm. My son is an interventional radiologist in Portland, OR and he recommended an ablation be done by a classmate of his, Dr. Ryan Kohlbrenner, at UC San Francisco. I had it done about 2 months ago. They froze it to kill it. The procedure had no pain and no recovery time. They covered the entry point with a band aid. The process to get a biopsy and to ablate it were the same so we did both at the same time. I would suggest calling Dr. Kohlbrenner for a referral. Once the mass gets larger than 4 cm it requires more of a surgical procedure. LMK if you have any more questions.

Yes I had a mri I April to determine why I have neuropathy in my legs and feet. They discovered, per the report, at least a 7.5 mass on right kidney. Highly suspected renal cell carcinoma.. so I have been put in for a cat scan with contrast. But haven't gotten that yet either. Nor a dr appointment.. I'm frustrated but I have not gotten any response 😒

@pamelacap, you are asking great questions and doing your homework. Active surveillance can be a viable option in many cases and depending on your preferences.

I'm tagging @mb4414 @sonshine161 @deebee41 who can further share their decision making criteria about cryotherapy.

I'm sure you read this or similar already, but just in case here is information from cryoablation treatement from Mayo Clinic:
- Cryoablation for cancer https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cryoablation-for-cancer/about/pac-20385216

To inquire if you can use telemed or virtual evaluation at Mayo Clinic to see if you are are candidate for cyroablation, you can talk to an appointment coordinator. Start here: http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63

Pamela, has anyone suggested a biopsy to confirm if it is cancerous or a benign cyst?

My son is an interventional radiologist who went to med school at Weill Cornell in NYC. If you like, i can ask him if he knows anyone in the Tri State Area. Or you can call Kohlbrenner for a referral in the Tri State area.

Was the neuropathy caused by the kidney tumor?

Serendipity! I would value your son's opinion if he does feel strongly about an east coast colleague. Your experience with Kohlbrenner carries a lot of weight, too, however!

My son said he's been gone too long from Weill Cornell to make a referral. I suggest following up with Kohlbrenner or one of the major medical institutions closer to you.