Known as cryoablation, it is a form of thermal ablation – a highly precise, image guided treatment that uses extreme heat or cold to destroy cancer cells – and is associated with fewer short-term complications than surgery, while better preserving kidney function.

Radiologist Dr Breen, who has pioneered the procedure, said: ‘Our goal has always been to provide patients with a treatment that is as effective as surgery but with significantly lower risk and much faster recovery.

‘By leading the European Renal Cryoablation Registry and generating the evidence that underpins current NICE guidance, we are not only improving outcomes for our patients but also helping to define the standard of care for kidney cancer internationally.'

Patients typically experience less pain, faster recovery and shorter hospital stays, with many able to return home the same day, while achieving outcomes comparable to surgery.

The milestone follows new guidelines released by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in March which recommend the procedure should be rolled out across the NHS.