Cryoablation Procedure Leads to Perforated Bowel

This case involves a 53-year old man with a history of smoking, who underwent cryoablation for renal cell carcinoma. The procedure had no reported issues and the patient was discharged home the following day. However, he presented to the emergency department several days later with abdominal pain and nausea. An abdominal CT scan revealed a perforation of the ascending colon that occurred during the operation but was not immediately identified. Subsequently, the patient had to be scheduled for an emergency partial colectomy.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Do you perform the described procedure?

2. Have you ever had a patient with the described complication?

3. Have you ever published or lectured on the matter?

4. Please explain your experience reviewing similar cases.

Expert Witness Response E-050272

I have performed many such procedures. I am aware of the complication, but never had it in my patients. I have lectured on renal tumor ablation and ablation complications many times. I have reviewed many interventional radiology cases and a few ablation cases in the past.