Cryosurgery for kidney cancer is performed either through an open surgical procedure or by use of a laparoscope. Using ultrasound, the surgeon places cryoprobe(s) in the center of the lesion. The probe is then cooled, forming an ice ball of the lesion, which results in the death of the cancerous tissue.

The advantages of cryosurgery for the kidney include minimal blood loss, shortened hospital stay, preservation of kidney function, minimal pain and less expense than traditional approaches.