Proceedings from an international consensus meeting on ablation in urogenital diseases

Abstract

Percutaneous image-guided ablation techniques are a consolidated therapeutic alternative for patients with high preoperative surgical risk for the management of oncological diseases in multiple body districts. Each technique has both pros and cons according to the type of energy delivered, mechanism of action, and site of application. The present article reviews the most recent literature results on ablation techniques applied in the field of genitourinary diseases (kidney, adrenal glands, prostate, and uterus), describing the advantages of the use of each technique and their technical limitations and summarizing the major recommendations from an international consensus meeting. Critical relevant statement The article critically evaluates the efficacy and safety of ablation therapies for various genitourinary tract diseases, demonstrating their potential to improve patient outcomes and advance clinical radiology by offering minimally invasive, effective alternatives to traditional surgical treatments. Key Points Ablation therapies are effective alternatives to surgery for renal cell carcinoma. Ablation techniques offer effective treatment for intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Ablation is a promising tool for adrenal tumor management. Ablation reduces fibroid symptoms and volume, offering an alternative to surgery. Graphical Abstract