Simple Enucleation is Equivalent to Traditional Partial Nephrectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma: Results of a Nonrandomized, Retrospective, Comparative Study

Microwave Scissors-Based Sutureless Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy Versus Conventional Open Partial Nephrectomy in a Porcine Model: Usefulness and Complications

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare the benefits and safety of microwave scissors-based sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (MSLPN) with those of conventional open partial nephrectomy (cOPN).

METHODS

Each kidney in nine pigs underwent MSLPN using microwave scissors (MWS) via transperitoneal laparoscopy or cOPN via retroperitoneal open laparotomy. The kidney's lower and upper poles were resected under temporary hilar-clamping. The renal calyces exposed during renal resections were sealed and transected using MWS in MSLPN and were sutured in cOPN. For MWS, the generator's power output was 60 W. Data on procedure time (PT), ischemic time (IT), blood loss (BL), normal nephron loss (NNL), and extravasation during retrograde pyelogram were compared between the two techniques.

RESULTS

The authors successfully performed 22 MSLPNs and 10 cOPNs. Compared with cOPN, MSLPN was associated with significantly lower PT (median, 9.2 vs 13.0 min; p = 0.026), IT (median, 5.9 vs 9.0 min; p < 0.001), BL (median, 14.4 vs 38.3 mL; p = 0.043), and NNL (median, 7.6 vs 9.4 mm; p = 0.004). However, the extravasation rate was higher in the MSLPN group than in the cOPN group (54.5 % [n = 12] vs 30.0 % [n = 3]), albeit without a significant difference (p = 0.265). Pelvic stenosis occurred in one MSLPN procedure that involved deep lower pole resection near the kidney hilum.

CONCLUSIONS

The study data show that MSLPN can improve intraoperative outcomes while reducing technical demands for selected patients with non-hilar-localized renal tumors. However, renal calyces, if violated, should be additionally sutured to prevent urine leakage.

The evolving management of small renal masses

Small renal masses (SRMs) are a heterogeneous group of tumours with varying metastatic potential. The increasing use and improving quality of abdominal imaging have led to increasingly early diagnosis of incidental SRMs that are asymptomatic and organ confined. Despite improvements in imaging and the growing use of renal mass biopsy, diagnosis of malignancy before treatment remains challenging. Management of SRMs has shifted away from radical nephrectomy, with active surveillance and nephron-sparing surgery taking over as the primary modalities of treatment. The optimal treatment strategy for SRMs continues to evolve as factors affecting short-term and long-term outcomes in this patient cohort are elucidated through studies from prospective data registries. Evidence from rapidly evolving research in biomarkers, imaging modalities, and machine learning shows promise in improving understanding of the biology and management of this patient cohort.

Robot-assisted Simple Enucleation Versus Standard Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy for Low- or Intermediate-complexity, Clinical T1 Renal Tumors: A Randomized Controlled Noninferiority Trial

BACKGROUND

Although partial nephrectomy has become the gold standard for T1 renal tumors whenever technically feasible, simple enucleation has shown superior results. To the best of our knowledge, no randomized controlled trials comparing these two surgical approaches have been published.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the surgical margin status for robot-assisted simple enucleation (RASE) and standard robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (sRAPN) for clinical T1 renal tumors.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This is a prospective, randomized, controlled, noninferiority trial. A total of 380 patients aged 18-80 yr with newly diagnosed, sporadic, unilateral clinical T1 renal tumors (RENAL score <10) were enrolled and randomized to RASE or sRAPN. The primary endpoint was the positive surgical margin (PSM) rate, with a noninferiority margin of 7.5% set. The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03624673).

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

We defined noninferiority for RASE versus standard RAPN as an upper 95% confidence interval (CI) bound of <7.5% for the difference in the proportion of patients with a PSM.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

A cohort of 380 patients was enrolled and randomly assigned to RASE (n = 190) or sRAPN (n = 190). On intention-to-treat analysis for patients with malignant tumors, 2.3% of patients in the RASE group and 3.0% in the sRAPN group had a PSM. The RASE group showed noninferiority to the sRAPN group within a 7.5% margin (difference -0.7%, 95% CI -4.0% to 2.7%). Per-protocol analysis also demonstrated noninferiority of RASE. The RASE group had a shorter median operative time (145 vs 155 min; p = 0.018) and a lower rate of tumor bed suturing (8.9% vs 43%; p < 0.001) in comparison to the sRAPN group. Estimated blood loss was considerably lower in the sRAPN group than in the RASE group (p = 0.046). The rate of recurrence did not differ between the groups (p > 0.9).

CONCLUSIONS

RASE for the management of low- to intermediate-complexity tumors is noninferior to sRAPN in terms of the PSM rate. Long-term follow-up is needed to draw conclusions regarding oncological outcomes.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We carried out a trial to compare simple tumor enucleation versus partial nephrectomy for renal tumors. The outcome we assessed was the proportion of patients with a positive surgical margin. Our results show that simple tumor enucleation is not inferior to partial nephrectomy for this outcome. Longer follow-up is needed to assess other cancer control outcomes.

Comparison of off-clamp microwave scissors-based sutureless partial nephrectomy versus on-clamp conventional partial nephrectomy in a canine model

Objectives

To compare the usefulness and safety of off-clamp microwave scissors-based sutureless partial nephrectomy (MSPN) with on-clamp conventional partial nephrectomy (cPN) in dogs.

Methods

We performed off-clamp MSPN using microwave scissors (MWS) in six dogs, and on-clamp cPN in three dogs, in two-stage experiments. The bilateral kidney upper poles were resected via a midline incision under general anesthesia. After 14 days of follow-up, the lower pole resections were performed. The renal calyces exposed during renal resections were sealed and transected using MWS in off-clamp MSPN and were sutured in on-clamp cPN. In the off-clamp MSPN group, the generator's power output of MWS was set as either 50 W or 60 W for each kidney side. We compared the procedure time (PT), ischemic time (IT), blood loss (BL), and normal nephron loss (NNL) between the two techniques using the Mann-Whitney U-test.

Results

We successfully performed 24 off-clamp MSPNs and 12 on-clamp cPNs. The off-clamp MSPN was significantly superior to on-clamp cPN in avoiding renal ischemia (median IT, 0 min vs. 8.6 min, p < 0.001) and reducing PT (median PT, 5.8 min vs. 11.5 min, p < 0.001) and NNL (median NNL, 5.3 mm vs. 6.0 mm, p = 0.006) with comparable BL (median BL, 20.9 ml vs. 23.2 ml, p = 0.804). No bleeding and major urine leakage were noted during the reoperations.

Conclusions

Off-clamp MSPN outperforms on-clamp cPN in lowering the risks of postoperative renal function impairment in dogs.

Robotic-assisted tumor enucleation versus robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy for intermediate and high complexity renal cell carcinoma: a single-institution experience

OBJECTIVES

To compare the perioperative and oncological outcomes of robotic-assisted tumor enucleation (RATE) and robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in the treatment of intermediate and high complexity renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

METHODS

We retrospectively collected the data of 359 patients with intermediate and high complexity RCC who underwent RATE and RAPN. The perioperative, oncological, and pathological outcomes of the two groups were compared, and univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the risk factors for warm ischemia time (WIT) > 25 min.

RESULTS

Compared with RAPN group, patients in RATE group had shorter operative time (P < 0.001), shorter WIT (P < 0.001), and less estimated blood loss (EBL) (P < 0.001). The decrease rate of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in RATE group was better than that in RAPN group (P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that RAPN and higher PADUA score were independent risk factors for WIT > 25 min (both P < 0.001). The rate of positive surgical margin was similar between the two groups, but the local recurrence rate of the RATE group was higher than that of the RAPN group (P = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

RATE and RAPN have similar oncological outcomes for the treatment of intermediate and high complexity RCC. In addition, RATE was superior to RAPN in perioperative outcomes.

Preclinical optimization of a diode laser-based clamp-free partial nephrectomy in a large animal model

Kidney cancer is a common urologic malignancy with either laparoscopic (LPN) or robotic partial nephrectomy as therapeutic options of choice for localized tumors. However, renal resection and suturing are challenging steps of the procedure that can lead to complications such as prolonged warm ischemia, bleeding, and urinary fistulas. LPN with a diode laser is an efficient technique due to its cutting and/or coagulation attributes. Surprisingly, key laser features such as wavelength and power remain undefined. Using a large porcine model, we evaluated the laser range of wavelength and power in a clamp-free LPN and compared it to the established gold-standard LPN technique (i.e., cold-cutting and suturing). By analyzing surgery duration, bleeding, presence of urine leak, tissue damage related to the resected renal fragment and the remaining organ, hemoglobin levels, and renal function, we show that an optimized experimental diode laser clamp-free LPN (wavelength, 980 nm; power, 15 W) had shorter surgery time with less bleeding, and better postoperative renal function recovery when compared to the well-established technique. Together, our data indicate that partial nephrectomy with a diode laser clamp-free LPN technique is an improved alternative to the gold-standard technique. Therefore, translational clinical trials towards human patient applications are readily feasible.

Resection Techniques During Robotic Partial Nephrectomy: A Systematic Review

Context

The resection technique used to excise tumor during robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) is of paramount importance in achieving optimal clinical outcomes.

Objective

To provide an overview of the different resection techniques used during RPN, and a pooled analysis of comparative studies.

Evidence acquisition

The systematic review was conducted according to established principles (PROSPERO: CRD42022371640) on November 7, 2022. A population (P: adult patients undergoing RPN), intervention (I: enucleation), comparator (C: enucleoresection or wedge resection), outcome (O: outcome measurements of interest), and study design (S) framework was prespecified to assess study eligibility. Studies reporting a detailed description of resection techniques and/or evaluating the impact of resection technique on outcomes of surgery were included.

Evidence synthesis

Resection techniques used during RPN can be broadly classified as resection (non-anatomic) or enucleation (anatomic). A standardized definition for these is lacking. Out of 20 studies retrieved, nine compared "standard" resection versus enucleation. A pooled analysis did not reveal significant differences in terms of operative time, ischemia time, blood loss, transfusions, or positive margins. Significant differences favoring enucleation were found for clamping management (odds ratio [OR] for renal artery clamping 3.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13-10.88; p = 0.03), overall complications (OR for occurrence 0.55, 95% CI 0.34-0.87; p = 0.01) major complications (OR for occurrence 0.39, 95% CI 0.19-0.79; p = 0.009), length of stay (weighted mean difference [WMD] -0.72 d, 95% CI -0.99 to -0.45; p < 0.001), and decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (WMD -2.64 ml/min, 95% CI -5.15 to -0.12; p = 0.04).

Conclusions

There is heterogeneity in the reporting of resection techniques used during RPN. The urological community must improve the quality of reporting and research produced accordingly. Positive margins are not specifically related to the resection technique. Focusing on studies comparing standard resection versus enucleation, advantages with tumor enucleation in terms of avoidance of artery clamping, overall/major complications, length of stay, and renal function were found. These data should be considered when planning the RPN resection strategy.

Patient summary

We reviewed studies on robotic surgery for partial kidney removal using different techniques to cut away the kidney tumor. We found that a technique called "enucleation" was associated with similar cancer control outcomes in comparison to the standard technique and had fewer complications, better kidney function after surgery, and a shorter hospital stay.

Effect of augmented reality navigation technology on perioperative safety in partial nephrectomies: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Aim

To evaluate the impact of augmented reality surgical navigation (ARSN) technology on short-term outcomes of partial nephrectomy (PN).

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science for eligible studies published through March 28, 2022. Two researchers independently performed the article screening, data extraction and quality review. Data analysis was performed using Cochrane Review Manager software.

Results

A total of 583 patients from eight studies were included in the analysis, with 313 in the ARSN-assisted PN group (AR group) and 270 in the conventional PN group (NAR group). ARSN-assisted PN showed better outcomes than conventional surgery in terms of operative time, estimated blood loss, global ischemia rate, warm ischemia time, and enucleation rate. However, there were no significant differences in the rate of Conversion to radical nephrectomy (RN), postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), positive margin rate, and postoperative complication rate.

Conclusion

The utilization of ARSN can improve the perioperative safety of PN. Compared with conventional PN, ARSN-assisted PN can reduce intraoperative blood loss, shorten operative time, and improve renal ischemia. Although direct evidence is lacking, our results still suggest a potential advantage of ARSN in improving renal recovery after PN. However, as the ARSN system is still in an exploratory stage, its relevance in PN have been poorly reported. Additional high-quality randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies will be required to confirm the effect of ARSN on PN.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=301798, identifier PROSPERO ID: CRD42022301798.

Imaging Features of Renal Masses to Select Optimal Candidates for Tumor Enucleation Partial Nephrectomy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The goal of this paper was to critically evaluate preoperative findings that optimally select candidates for renal tumor enucleation partial nephrectomy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Tumor enucleation has been widely accepted as a management option for patients with chronic kidney disease, hereditary renal cell carcinoma, or multifocal disease. Recent evidence suggests safety and efficacy in the management of routine small renal masses. With recent advances in imaging, the literature for ruling out aggressive renal cell carcinoma and selection for tumor enucleation is robust. As the incidence of renal cell carcinoma rises, partial nephrectomy continues to be the mainstay of treatment for localized renal cell carcinoma. Tumor enucleation maximizes preservation of renal parenchyma without hindering oncologic outcomes. It is important to recognize key tumor radiologic findings which urologists may use to optimize patient selection for tumor enucleation.

Clampless Laparoscopic Tumor Enucleation for Exophytic Masses Greater Than 4 cm: Is Renorrhaphy Necessary?

Objective: To demonstrate the safety of clampless 3D laparoscopic tumor enucleation (cLTE) for exophytic T1b kidney masses, avoiding suture to achieve hemostasis. Methods: Between January 2010 and January 2021, 241 consecutive patients with an exophytic renal tumor underwent sutureless cLTE. Patients with predominantly endophytic growth or tumors 4 mm closer to the collecting system less were excluded. In all cases, an attempt was made to accomplish surgery without suturing kidney parenchyma. Data were obtained from a retrospective review of history and physical examinations, operative and pathology reports, anesthesia records during the hospital stay, and follow-up visits. Results: Among 241 patients who underwent cLTE, 148 had cT1a and 93 had cT1b renal tumor. The median tumor size was 32 mm, and the median R.E.N.A.L. (radius exophytic/endophytic nearness anterior/posterior location) score was 6. Renorrhaphy was necessary in 5 cases. The median operative time (OT) was 100 minutes, and the estimated blood loss (EBL) was 150 mL. The median 24-hour decrease in hemoglobin was 1.8 g/dL. The median length of stay was 4 days. Nineteen patients had postoperative complications: 3 cases had Clavien-Dindo (CD) 3a or more, 6 had CD2, and 10 had CD1. Comparing the T1a and T1b groups, except for the median OT and the EBL, no significant differences were observed in all the other variables analyzed. In both groups, renal function was preserved after 1 year from surgery. Conclusion: Our experience showed that sutureless cLTE is safe and feasible for T1b tumors leading to radical oncological outcomes and preserving renal function.

Tumor enucleation for the treatment of T1 renal tumors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of tumor enucleation (TE) compared with partial nephrectomy (PN) for T1 renal cell carcinoma.

Materials and Methods

According to protocol, we searched multiple data sources for published and unpublished randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized studies (NRSs) in any language. We performed systematic review and meta-analysis according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and rated the certainty of the evidence (CoE) using the GRADE framework.

Results

We are uncertain about the effects of TE on perioperative (mean difference [MD] 3.38, 95% CI 1.52 to 5.23; I²=68%; 4 NRSs; 942 participants; very low CoE) and long-term (MD 2.31, 95% CI -1.40 to 6.01; I²=57%; 4 NRSs; 542 participants; very low CoE) residual renal function. TE may result in little to no difference in short-term residual renal function (MD 1.04, 95% CI 0.25 to 1.83; I²=0%; 2 NRSs; 256 participants; low CoE). We are uncertain about the effects of TE on cancer-specific mortality (risk ratio [RR] 0.90, 95% CI: 0.11 to 7.28; I²=0%; 2 NRSs; 551 participants; very low CoE) and major adverse events (RR 0.48, 95% CI: 0.30 to 0.79; I²=0%; 10 NRS; 2,360 participants; very low CoE).

Conclusions

While TE appears to have similar effects on short term postoperative residual renal function, there were uncertainties on mortality and major adverse events. However, we need rigorous RCTs to elucidate the effects of TE as the evidence stems mostly from NRSs.

Robotic-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy: Techniques to Improve Clinical Outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize current options available for robot-assisted partial nephrectomy RECENT FINDINGS: Partial nephrectomy (PN) is a standard treatment option for management of cT1 renal masses. It may be carried out by multiple approaches. Robot-assisted (RA) PN is one such option. The goal of treatment is both correct oncological (negative surgical margins) and functional (preservation of sufficient amount of renal parenchyma of the operated kidney) outcome. Appropriate outcomes depend on multiple factors. There are many, but among others tumor characteristics (size, location, i.e., tumor complexity), patient baseline renal function, patient comorbidities, and performance status etc. Based on all these, the surgeon adapts the intervention for each mass/patient by preoperative planning, absence/use/duration of warm or cold ischemia, perioperative imaging, resection technique adapted to tumor location and depth of invasion, use of hemostatics, type and degree of renal parenchymal closure and others details. Nephroprotective agents have not shown efficacy so far. It should not be forgotten that surgeon's experience plays a key role in the achievement of good results. Although multiple factors have a role in the RA partial nephrectomy, surgeon experience and adaptation of technique of intervention have the crucial role in the achievement of both functional and oncological results.

Greater Renal Function Benefit from Enucleation Technique for More Complex Renal Tumors in Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy

Background: Tumor enucleation technique in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) reportedly contributes to renal function preservation. Which tumors and which part to utilize this technique have not been determined. Patients and Methods: This multi-institutional retrospective study included patients who underwent RAPN at tertiary surgery centers. Patients were first stratified into High, Intermediate, and Low categories based on renal nephrometry score. Patients were further classified into I/B-enucleation (I/B-E, I + B ≤ 1) and I/B-resection (I/B-R, I + B ≥ 2) groups based on surface-intermediate-base margin score. Perioperative outcomes, including percentile change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), new-onset chronic kidney disease, complication rate, surgical margin, and trifecta achievement, were compared between the I/B-E and I/B-R groups in each category. Odds ratios (ORs) and β-coefficients were also compared. Results: Overall, 704 patients were included in this study. Relative decrease in eGFR was significantly lower for the I/B-E group in all three categories, with medians of 8.1%, 4.4%, and 3.2% in the High, Intermediate, and Low, respectively. In multivariate analyses, excision technique was independently associated with eGFR change in all three. β-coefficient was higher in the High (5.06) category than in the Low (3.17) or Intermediate (3.33). Across all three categories, significantly more patients attained trifecta with a difference of 34.0%, 18.3%, and 15.1% in the High, Intermediate, and Low categories, respectively (all, p < 0.05), with a higher OR in the High (5.91) category than in the Low (3.20) or Intermediate (2.48). No significant differences were found in operation time, amount of estimated blood loss, rate of positive surgical margin, or complications. Warm ischemic time was significantly longer for the I/B-E group in the Intermediate (18.0 minutes vs 16.0 minutes, p = 0.002) and Low categories (13.0 vs 11.0, p = 0.006), but not significant in High (p = 0.344). Conclusions: I/B-enucleation in RAPN contributes to renal function preservation, and the impact was more emphasized in complex tumors.

X-Capsular Incision for Tumor Enucleation (X-CITE)-Technique: A Method to Maximize Renal Parenchymal Preservation for Completely Endophytic Renal Tumors

OBJECTIVE

To describe the X-Capsular Incision for Tumor Enucleation (X-CITE) technique to resect endophytic renal tumors while preserving the overlying renal parenchyma.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We reviewed 1-year outcomes of 12 consecutive patients with a history of bilateral or multifocal renal tumors who presented to our institution with completely endophytic renal masse(s) between August 2017 and August 2018. Endophytic tumors were resected by making an X-shaped incision in the renal capsule and developing parenchymal flaps overlying the tumor pseudocapsule. Following tumor enucleation, the overlying parenchymal flaps were reapproximated.

RESULTS

Median follow up was 19.9 months (range 10.6-14.9). Most patients also had additional exophytic tumors with a median of 5 renal tumors removed per operation with a median largest renal tumor size of 3.2 cm. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. There was no decline in renal function after surgery when comparing median pre- and 12-month postoperative eGFR (94.5 vs 91.5, P= 0.18).). Postoperative nuclear mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG-3) renal scans demonstrated equal differential kidney function after surgery. Limitations include short-term follow-up and referral bias at center specializing in multi-focal kidney surgery.

CONCLUSION

The X-Capsular Incision for Tumor Enucleation technique is feasible, safe and effective with minimal collateral damage in the treatment of completely endophytic renal masses. Further investigation should identify which patients may benefit from this procedure and explore intermediate and long-term outcomes.

Detection of a peritumoral pseudocapsule in patients with renal cell carcinoma undergoing robot-assisted partial nephrectomy using enhanced MDCT

To investigate the detection of peritumoral pseudocapsule (PC) using multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) for tumors resected by robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for T1 renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Study participants included 206 patients with clinical T1 RCC who underwent RAPN between October 2017 and February 2018. Two radiologists who were blinded to the pathological findings evaluated the computed tomography (CT) images. Radiological diagnosis of a PC was defined by a combination of observations, including a low-attenuation rim between the tumor and renal cortex in the cortico-medullary phase and a high-attenuation rim at the edge of the tumor in the nephrogenic or excretory phase. A PC was detected on CT in 156/206 tumors (76%) and identified by pathology in 182/206 (88%) tumors including 153/166 (92%) clear cell RCC, 13/14 (93%) papillary RCC, and 7/16 (44%) chromophobe RCC. In the whole cohort, CT findings showed a sensitivity of 81.3% (148/182), specificity of 66.7% (16/24), and positive predictive value of 94.9% (148/156). When the data were stratified according to pathological subtypes, MDCT was observed to have a sensitivity of 86.9% (133/153) and specificity of 61.5% (8/13) in clear cell RCC, sensitivity of 38.5% (5/13) and specificity of 100% (1/1) in papillary RCC, and sensitivity of 44.4% (4/7) and specificity of 66.7% (6/9) in chromophobe RCC. A low or high-attenuation rim around the tumor in the cortico-medullary or nephrographic-to-excretory phase indicates a PC of RCC, though the accuracy is not satisfactory even with 64- or 320-detector MDCT.

Long-Term Oncologic Outcomes After Laparoscopic and Robotic Tumor Enucleation for Renal Cell Carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Tumor enucleation (TE) optimizes parenchymal preservation with promising short-term oncologic outcomes compared with standard partial nephrectomy (SPN). However, researches/literatures about long-term oncologic outcomes for TE after minimally invasive surgery are scarce. We aim to analyze long-term oncologic outcomes after laparoscopic and robotic tumor enucleation for renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 146 patients who underwent TE with either laparoscopic or robotic approach for localized RCC in our center. Local recurrence, cancer specific survival (CSS), recurrence free survival (RFS), and overall survival (OS) were the main outcomes. Survival curves were generated using a Kaplan-Meier method. Perioperative outcomes and pathological outcomes were also analyzed.

RESULTS

Overall, 98 male and 48 female patients were eligible for the study. The median tumor size was 3.4 cm with a median R.E.N.A.L. score of seven. Warm ischemia was used in 143 patients with a median ischemia time of 20 min and three patients had zero ischemia. Five patients (3.4%) had major complications (> Clavien IIIa) and only two were related to urinary system. The median global glomerular filtration rate (GFR) preserved after surgery was 93%. Pseudocapsule invasion was reported in 50 tumors (34%) and positive surgical margins were found in 3/146 (2.1%) tumors. At a median follow-up of 66 months, local recurrence happened in two patients (1.4%), and systemic recurrence happened in six patients (4.2%). The 5-year CSS, RFS, OS were 95.7, 89.6, and 91.9%, and the 10-year CSS, RFS, OS were 93.8, 89.6, and 90.0%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that tumor enucleation with laparoscopic or robotic approach in experienced hands for the treatment of RCC appears oncologically safe with a median follow-up of more than 5 years. Prospective studies with more patients and longer follow-up will be required to further evaluate oncologic safety after TE.

Comparison of postoperative recovery after robot-assisted partial nephrectomy of T1 renal tumors through retroperitoneal or transperitoneal approach: A Japanese single institutional analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the quality of recovery in patients who underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy and to compare the outcomes of the transperitoneal or retroperitoneal approach.

METHODS

This study included 121 patients who underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy under general anesthesia from April 2019 to September 2019 at Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan. Quality of recovery was defined according to the QoR-40 Japanese version. The participants responded to the QoR-40 Japanese version on three designated days. The patients were assigned to two groups according to the surgical approach: transperitoneal or retroperitoneal. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify independent factors associated with better quality of recovery.

RESULTS

Out of the 121 patients, 56 (46%) and 65 (54%) patients were included in the transperitoneal and retroperitoneal group, respectively. Although the QoR-40 Japanese version scores were not different between the two groups at admission, a better quality of recovery was observed in the retroperitoneal group than in the transperitoneal group at discharge based on the total score: physical comfort, emotional state, physical independence and pain. A multivariate analysis showed that the retroperitoneal approach and male sex were associated with a better QoR-40 Japanese version score at discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

A retroperitoneal approach offers better quality of recovery than a transperitoneal approach, and therefore it might represent the optimal approach in selected patients undergoing robot-assisted partial nephrectomy.

A preoperative nomogram predicting the pseudocapsule status in localized renal cell carcinoma

Background

Tumor enucleation (TE) surgery for localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC) relies on a complete peritumoral pseudocapsule (PC). Study objective was to develop a preoperative model to predict PC status.

Methods

The prediction model was developed in a cohort that consisted of 170 patients with localized RCC, and data was gathered from 2010 to 2015. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and R were used to generate this prediction model. The statistical performance was assessed with respect to the calibration, discrimination, and clinical usefulness.

Results

The prediction model incorporated the systemic inflammatory markers [neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR); albumin-globulin ratio (AGR)], CT imaging features (tumor size and necrosis), and clinical risk factors (BMI). The model showed good discrimination, with a C-index of 0.85 (0.78–0.91), and good calibration (P=0.60). The sensitivity and specificity were 62% and 94% respectively. Decision curves and clinical impact curve demonstrated that the current model was clinically useful.

Conclusions

We constructed a model that incorporated both the systematic inflammatory markers and clinical risk factors. It can be conveniently used to preoperatively predict the individualized risk of PC invasion and identify the best candidates to receive TE surgery.

Endophytic Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated with Robot-Assisted Surgery: Functional Outcomes - A Comprehensive Review of the Current Literature

INTRODUCTION

Robotic surgery for the management of localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has gained increasing popularity during the last decade. An endophytic renal tumour represents a surgical technical challenge in terms of identification and resection related to the lack of external visual cues on the kidney surface.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

There is little evidence of functional outcomes of robotic surgery on treating endophytic masses. For this reason, we wanted to review the contemporary literature on the functional outcomes of endophytic RCC treated with robotic surgery.

RESULTS

Many studies investigating robotic partial nephrectomy for totally endophytic RCC confirmed the good functional results of this approach at intermediate follow-up. The greater relative importance of volume loss versus ischaemia duration in predicting long-term renal function after partial nephrectomy is now established, and the robotic technique may facilitate volume preservation. Accurate use of intra-operative ultrasonography, enucleation, and intra-operative techniques using near-infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green dye could minimize excision of the parenchyma and prevent devascularization of adjacent healthy parenchyma.

CONCLUSIONS

Unfortunately, the overall quality of the literature evidence and the high risk of selection bias limit the possibility of any causal interpretation about the relationship between the surgical technique used and functional outcomes.

Renal cell cancer treatment: an expert panel recommendation from the Latin American cooperative group-genitourinary and the Latin American renal cancer group: focus on surgery

Background:

Renal cell cancer (RCC) is one of the 10 most common cancers in the world, and its incidence is increasing, whereas mortality is declining only in developed countries. Therefore, two collaborative groups, The Latin American Oncology Cooperative Group-Genitourinary Section (LACOG-GU) and the Latin American Renal Cancer Group (LARCG), held a consensus meeting to develop this guideline.

Methods:

Issues (134) related to the treatment of RCC were previously formulated by a panel of experts. The voting panel comprised 26 specialists (urologists and medical oncologists) from the LACOG-GU/LARCG. A consensus was reached if 75% agreement was achieved. If there was less concordance, a new discussion was undertaken, and a consensus was determined by the most votes after a second voting session.

Results:

The expert meeting provided recommendations that were in line with the global literature; 75.0% of the recommendations made by the panel of experts were evidence-based level A, 22.5% of the recommendations were level B, and 2.5% of the recommendations were level D.

Conclusions:

This review suggests recommendations for the surgical treatment of RCC according to the LACOG-GU/LARCG experts.

Tumor Enucleation vs. Partial Nephrectomy for T1 Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Purpose: Tumor enucleation (TE) and partial nephrectomy (PN) have both become main treatment strategies for T1 renal cell carcinoma (RCC), despite the discrepancy between their safety margin. We performed a meta-analysis on all the relevant trials in order to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of TE with those of PN for RCC treatment. Methods: In this meta-analysis, randomized controlled trials or retrospective studies were included if they compared TE and PN therapy in patients with localized renal cancer. The main outcomes extracted were perioperative data and post-operative outcomes. Subgroups for analyses were undertaken according to tumor size and duration of follow up. Data were pooled using the generic variance method with a fixed or random effects model and expressed as mean differences or odds ratios with 95% CI. Results: A total of 13 studies containing 1,792 patients undergoing TE and 3,068 undergoing PN were identified. Our study showed that the patients received TE had significantly shorter operative time (MD = -28.46, 95% CI = -42.09, -14.83, P < 0.0001), less hospital day (MD = -0.68, 95% CI = -1.04, -0.31, P = 0.0003), less estimate blood loss (MD = -59.90, 95% CI = -93.23, -26.58, P = 0.0004) and smaller change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (fixed effect: MD = 4.66, 95% CI = 1.67, 7.66, P = 0.002), fewer complications (fixed effect: OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.50, 0.85, P = 0.001) compared with those received PN. However, there were no significant differences in terms of warm ischemic time, positive margin rates, recurrence rates and survival rates between the two groups. All the subgroup analyses presented consistent results with the overall analyses. Conclusions: Our findings suggested that TE is not only less-traumatizing and beneficial for recovery, but also better for renal function protection. Moreover, it did not show the evidence of an increase relapse rate or mortality rate when compared with PN.

Accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging to identify pseudocapsule invasion in renal tumors

PURPOSE

To evaluate accuracy of MRI in detecting renal tumor pseudocapsule (PC) invasion and to propose a classification based on imaging of PC status in patients with renal cell carcinoma.

METHODS

From January 2017 to June 2018, 58 consecutive patients with localized renal cell carcinoma were prospectively enrolled. MRI was performed preoperatively and PC was classified, according to its features, as follows: MRI-Cap 0 (absence of PC), MRI-Cap 1 (presence of a clearly identifiable PC), MRI-Cap 2 (focally interrupted PC), and MRI-Cap 3 (clearly interrupted and infiltrated PC). A 3D image reconstruction showing MRI-Cap score was provided to both surgeon and pathologist to obtain complete preoperative evaluation and to compare imaging and pathology reports. All patients underwent laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. In surgical specimens, PC was classified according to the renal tumor capsule invasion scoring system (i-Cap).

RESULTS

A concordance between MRI-Cap and i-Cap was found in 50/58 (86%) cases. ρ coefficient for each MRI-cap and iCap categories was: MRI-Cap 0: 0.89 (p < 0.0001), MRI-Cap1: 0.75 (p < 0.0001), MRI-Cap 2: 0.76 (p < 0.0001), and MRI-Cap3: 0.87 (p < 0.0001). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and AUC were: MRI-Cap 0: Se 97.87% Spec 83.3%, PPV 95.8%, NPV 90.9%, and AUC 90.9; MRI-Cap 1: Se 77% Spec 95.5%, PPV 83.3%, NPV 93.5%, and AUC 0.86; MRI-Cap 2- iCap 2: Se 88% Spec 90%, PPV 79%, NPV 95%, and AUC 0.89; MRI-Cap 3: Se 94% Spec 95%, PPV 88%, NPV 97%, and AUC 0.94.

CONCLUSIONS

MRI-Cap classification is accurate in evaluating renal tumor PC features. PC features can provide an imaging-guided landmark to figure out where a minimal margin could be preferable during nephron-sparing surgery.

Tumor Enucleation is Appropriate During Partial Nephrectomy: Against

Tumor enucleation has been proposed as an alternative approach during partial nephrectomy. While enucleation is a useful technique in select patients, there are insufficient data to advocate for its use on a routine basis.

Long-Term Outcome of Zero-Ischemia Partial Nephrectomy for the Treatment of Multifocal Renal Cell Carcinoma in Renal Transplant Allograft: A Case Report

Multifocal synchronous renal cell carcinoma in the functioning allograft is a rare disease; there is no consensus regarding its treatment, and few cases have been reported. In isolated masses, some authorities advocate graft nephrectomy, and some recommend partial nephrectomy. To our knowledge, we describe the first experience of nephron-sparing surgery in multifocal synchronous renal cell carcinoma in an allograft with its long-term outcome. A 42-year-old male patient with a history of living related-donor kidney transplant from his brother (18 years previously) presented with a history of gross hematuria over the past few months. Imaging studies revealed a 5.5-cm exophytic cystic mass lesion in lower pole and an 11-mm solid mass in the upper pole of the renal allograft. Both graft nephrectomy and nephronsparing surgery were offered to him. After the patient provided written informed consent, zero-ischemia partial nephrectomy of lower pole and enucleation of upper pole mass were performed. Pathology reports for both lesions indicated clear cell carcinoma, and margins were free of tumor. Twelve months after surgery, the patient was free of tumor, and his creatinine level was 1.6 mg/dL. At 29 months after surgery, his creatinine level was 2.4 mg/dL, and imaging revealed a tumor-free allograft. Nephronsparing surgery in multifocal renal cell carcinoma in the functioning renal allograft was feasible in our patient, and the long-term outcome was satisfactory. This surgical option provided dialysis-free and longterm tumor-free survival to the patient.

Optimization of renal function preservation during robotic partial nephrectomy

Over the past few years, the role of robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RPN) has exponentially grown. Multiple recognized factors contribute to postoperative renal function in patients undergoing RPN. The aim of this review is to identify these potential factors, and to evaluate strategies that may help optimize the goal of renal function preservation. A nonsystematic literature review was performed to retrieve the most recent evidence on factors contributing to renal function post-RPN. Analyzed elements include baseline factors (tumor complexity and patient characteristics), intraoperative (surgical) factors (control of the renal hilum and type of ischemia, resection technique, renorrhaphy technique), and pharmacotherapeutics. In conclusion, the advantages of robotic surgery in the setting of partial nephrectomy (PN) are becoming well established. Maximal preservation of renal function remains a priority goal of the procedure, and it is influenced by a plethora of factors. Adequate patient selection using radiomics, control of comorbidities, utilization of evidence-based intraoperative techniques/strategies, and postoperative care are key components of postoperative preservation of renal function. Further investigations regarding these factors and their effects on long-term renal function are necessary and will continue to aid in guiding appropriate patient care.

The correlation between affected renal function and affected renal residual volume: A retrospective outcome of laparoscopic nephron-sparing partial nephrectomy with segmental renal artery blocking-up for localized renal tumors

Laparoscopic nephron-sparing partial nephrectomy with segmental renal artery blocking (SRPN) has been widely used in the treatment of localized renal tumors. However, the impact of ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) during SRPN remains controversial. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between affected renal function and affected renal volume after SRPN for localized renal tumor treatment, explore the effect of IRI on renal function after SRPN.A total of 39 patients who underwent SRPN for localized renal tumor from June 2009 to April 2012 were reviewed. These patients were followed-up for 5 years. The preoperative affected renal glomerular filtration rate (aGFRpre), postoperative affected renal glomerular filtration rate (aGFRpost), preoperative affected renal volume (aVolpre), and postoperative affected renal volume (aVolpost) were collected during the follow-up period. The correlation between aGFRpost/aGFRpre and aVolpost/aVolpre was compared.A total of 33 patients were successfully followed up. After 3, 6, 12, 24, and 60 months, aGFRpost was 34.6 ± 4.6, 34.7 ± 4.8, 34.9 ± 4.4, 35.1 ± 4.4, and 35.2 ± 4.2 mL/min. The correlation coefficients between aGFRpost/aGFRpre and aVolpost/aVolpre were 0.659 (P = .000), 0.667 (P = .000), 0.663 (P = .000), 0.629 (P = .000), and 0.604 (P = .000), respectively. The limitation of this study was the small cohort size.For the localized renal tumor, aGFRpost was associated with aVolpost, but was not associated with intraoperative factors, such as the time of clamping of the affected segmental renal artery. As a part of nephrons, the resected tumor tissue caused the lack of inherent nephrons, resulting in the loss of renal function. More nephrons should be maintained before resecting the tumor completely during SRPN.Trial registration: ChiCTR-RRC-17011418.

RETRACTED: Recommandations françaises du Comité de Cancérologie de l’AFU – Actualisation 2018–2020 : prise en charge du cancer du reinFrench ccAFU guidelines – Update 2018–2020: Management of kidney cancer

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy). Cet article est retiré de la publication à la demande des auteurs car ils ont apporté des modifications significatives sur des points scientifiques après la publication de la première version des recommandations. Le nouvel article est disponible à cette adresse: DOI:10.1016/j.purol.2019.01.004. C’est cette nouvelle version qui doit être utilisée pour citer l’article. This article has been retracted at the request of the authors, as it is not based on the definitive version of the text because some scientific data has been corrected since the first issue was published. The replacement has been published at the DOI:10.1016/j.purol.2019.01.004. That newer version of the text should be used when citing the article.

Endoscopic Robot-assisted Simple Enucleation Versus Laparoscopic Simple Enucleation With Single-layer Renorrhaphy in Localized Renal Tumors: A Propensity Score-matched Analysis From a High-volume Centre

OBJECTIVE

To compare perioperative results and early oncological outcomes of endoscopic robot-assisted simple enucleation (ERASE) and laparoscopic simple enucleation (LSE) by using a propensity score-matched analysis.

METHODS

We evaluated 383 patients who underwent transperitoneal ERASE or LSE for renal tumors from November 2012 to October 2016. Propensity score matching was performed on age, gender, body mass index, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score, tumor side and size, preoperative estimated GFR and PADUA score.

RESULTS

In total, 278 and 105 patients underwent ERASE and LSE, respectively. The PADUA score was ≥10 for 61 (21.9%) and 13 (12.4%), respectively (P = .034). After matching, mean operative time and warm ischemic time were significantly lower with ERASE than LSE (171.9 vs 188.2 minutes; P = 0.016 and 20.9 vs 24.2 minutes; P = .001). The estimated mean blood loss was similar (167.7 vs 183.3 mL; P = .315). The conversion rate to open surgery or radical nephrectomy was similar with ERASE and LSE (1.0% vs 5.0%, P = .214) and the rate of intraoperative complications was lower (2.0% vs 8.9%, P = .030). The overall incidence of positive surgical margins was similar (P = .614). The median follow-up was less for ERASE than LSE patients (22 vs 38 months). Recurrence did not differ between the 2 groups: 2 ERASE cases (2.0%) versus 4 LSE cases (4.0%) (P = .679).

CONCLUSION

ERASE is a safe and acceptable alternative to LSE. ERASE appears to confer shorter operative time, shorter warm ischemic time and lower rate of intraoperative complication.

Localized chromophobe renal cell carcinoma: preoperative imaging judgment and laparoscopic simple enucleation for treatment

Objective:

To evaluate the preoperative imaging manifestation and therapeutic effect of laparoscopic simple enucleation (SE) for localized chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (chRCC).

Materials and Methods:

Clinical data of 36 patients who underwent laparoscopic SE of localized chRCC at our institute were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent preoperative renal protocol CT (unenhanced, arterial, venous, and delayed images). CT scan characteristics were evaluated. After intraoperative occlusion of the renal artery, the tumor was free bluntly along the pseudocapsule and enucleated totally. The patients were followed up regularly after the operation.

Results:

Mean tumor diameter was 3.9±1.0 cm, 80% of tumors were homogeneous and all the tumors had complete pseudocapsule. The attenuation values were slightly lower than normal renal cortex and degree of enhancement of the tumors were significantly lower than normal renal cortex. Mean operation time was 104.3±18.2 min. Mean warm ischemia time (WIT) was 21.3±3.5 min. Mean blood loss was 78.6±25.4 mL. No positive surgical margin was identified. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 5.3±1.5 d. Hematuria occurred in 3 patients and all disappeared within 3 days. After a mean follow-up of 32.1±20.6 months, no patient had local recurrence or metastatic progression.

Conclusion:

Localized chRCCs have a great propensity for homogeneity and complete pseudocapsule. The attenuation values were slightly lower than normal renal cortex and small degree of enhancement. Laparoscopic SE is a safe and effective treatment for localized chRCC. The oncological results were satisfactory.

Perioperative outcomes of zero ischemia radiofrequency ablation-assisted tumor enucleation for renal cell carcinoma: results of 182 patients

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the perioperative outcomes of zero ischemia radiofrequency ablation-assisted tumor enucleation.

METHODS

Patients undergoing zero ischemia radiofrequency ablation-assisted tumor enucleation were retrospectively identified from July 2008 to March 2013. The tumor was enucleated after RFA treatment. R.E.N.A.L., PADUA and centrality index (C-index) score systems were used to assess each tumor case. We analyzed the correlation of perioperative outcomes with these scores. Postoperative complications were graded with Clavien-Dindo system. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess risk of complications.

RESULTS

Among 182 patients assessed, median tumor size, estimated blood loss, hospital stay and operative time were 3.2 cm (IQR 2.8-3.4), 80 ml (IQR 50-120), 7 days (IQR 6-8) and 100 min (IQR 90-120), respectively. All three scoring systems were strongly correlated with estimated blood loss, hospital stay and operative time. We found 3 (1.6%) intraoperative and 23 (12.6%, 13 [7.1%] Grade 1 and 10 [5.5%] Grade 2 & 3a) postoperative complications. The median follow-up was 55.5 months (IQR 45-70). Additionally, the complexities of R.E.N.A.L., PADUA and C-index scores were significantly correlated with complication grades (P < 0.001; P < 0.001; P < 0.001; respectively). As the representative, R.E.N.A.L. score was an independent predictive factor for postoperative complications and patients with a high complexity had an over 24-fold higher risk compared to those with a low complexity (OR 24.360, 95% CI 4.412-134.493, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Zero ischemia radiofrequency ablation-assisted tumor enucleation is considered an effective nephron-sparing treatment. Scoring systems could be useful for predicting perioperative outcomes of radiofrequency ablation-assisted tumor enucleation.

Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy: A Narrative Review and Comparison with Open and Robotic Partial Nephrectomy

INTRODUCTION

Kidney cancer ranks among the top 10 most prevalent cancers in Western society, ∼90% of which are renal cell carcinomas. There has been a paradigm shift in the management of small renal masses with strong emphasis now placed on nephron-sparing surgery and increased utilization of laparoscopic approaches to partial nephrectomy. In this review, the current state of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) is discussed.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

The PubMed database was queried using the MeSH terms "laparoscopy" and "nephrectomy," as well as the search term "partial." A search was performed filtering for "clinical trial," "review," "humans", and "English."

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Articles that discussed intraoperative techniques, functional and oncologic outcomes, and a comparison between robot-assisted partial nephrectomy and LPN were synthesized.

CONCLUSION

LPN reduces ischemia time, affords equivalent functional outcomes, oncologic outcomes, and equivalent complication rates compared with open partial nephrectomy. Future advances in laparoscopic technique and advancements in robotic technology offer potential to improve surgical and patient outcomes.

[Focal therapy for small renal masses : Observation, ablation or surgery]

BACKGROUND

The rising incidence of renal cell carcinoma, its more frequent early detection (stage T1a) and the increasing prevalence of chronic renal failure with higher morbidity and shorter life expectancy underscore the need for multimodal focal nephron-sparing therapy.

DISCUSSION

During the past decade, the gold standard shifted from radical to partial nephrectomy. Depending on the surgeon's experience, the patient's constitution and the tumor's location, the intervention can be performed laparoscopically with the corresponding advantages of lower invasiveness. A treatment alternative can be advantageous for selected patients with high morbidity and/or an increased risk of complications associated with anesthesia or surgery. Corresponding risk stratification necessitates previous confirmation of the small renal mass (cT1a) by histological examination of biopsy samples. Active surveillance represents a controlled delay in the initiation of treatment.

RESULTS

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and laparoscopic cryoablation are currently the most common treatment alternatives, although there are limitations particularly for renal tumors located centrally near the hilum. More recent ablation procedures such as high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), irreversible electroporation, microwave ablation, percutaneous stereotactic ablative radiotherapy and high-dose brachytherapy have high potential in some cases but are currently regarded as experimental for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma.

Histopathologic analysis of tumor bed and peritumoral pseudocapsule after in vitro tumor enucleation on radical nephrectomy specimen for clinical T1b renal cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

This study was designed to assess the feasibility and histopathologic safety of tumor enucleation for renal cell carcinoma, through histopathologic analysis of the tumor bed and peritumoral pseudocapsule (PC) after in vitro tumor enucleation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We studied 176 radical nephrectomy specimens for clinical T1b renal cell carcinoma in our institution, from January 2013-February 2016. Immediately after the kidney was excised, the tumor of radical specimen was enucleated in vitro. The tumor bed parenchyma of 15mm beyond the PC was examined to investigate the possible presence of tumor invasion or satellite lesions. The PC invasion was also evaluated.

RESULTS

The average tumor size was 5.7±0.7cm. The histopathologic evaluation revealed that 68.2% of tumors were clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The pathological staging showed that 92.6% of tumors were pT1b, 2.8% were pT2, and 4.5% were pT3a. For clinical T1b RCC, tumor infiltration on tumor bed was detected in 6 cases (3.4%), and satellite lesion was detected in 3 (1.7%). In the group of grade 1 to 2, 4 (2.3%) were found with residual tumor, and 5 (2.8%) in the group of grade 3 to 4 (P = 0.133). Papillary RCC had the highest rate of residual tumors (8.8%). A statistically significant association of peritumoral PC invasion with tumor size and pathologic grade was observed. Median follow-up was 23 months (range: 6-43) with a recurrence rate of 6.3% (11 of 176) and a cancer-specific mortality rate of 2.8% (5 of 176).

CONCLUSIONS

For clinical T1b renal cell carcinoma, the risks of tumor infiltration or satellite lesions on enucleation tumor bed or both are relatively low. Peritumoral PC invasion is associated with tumor size and pathologic stage. Tumor enucleation is a histopathologically safe technique for patients undergoing partial nephrectomy.

Outcomes of robot-assisted simple enucleation of renal masses: A single European center experience

The aim of this study was to assess the ability of pre-and intraoperative parameters, to predict the risk of perioperative complications after robot-assisted laparoscopic simple enucleation (RASE) of renal masses, and to evaluate the rate of trifecta achievement of this approach stratifying the cohort according to the use of ischemia during the enucleation.From April 2009 to June 2016, 129 patients underwent RASE at our Institution. We stratified the procedures in 2 groups: clamping and clamp-less RASE. After RASE, all specimens were retrospectively reviewed to assess the surface-intermediate-base (SIB) scoring system. Patients were followed-up according to the European Association of Urology guidelines recommendations. All pre-, intra-, and postoperative outcomes were prospectively collected in a customized database and retrospectively analyzed.A total of 112 (86.8%) patients underwent a pure RASE and 17 (13.2%) had a hybrid according to SIB classification system. The mean age was 61.17 years. In 21 patients (16.3%), complications occurred, 13 (61.9%) were Clavien 1 and 2, while 8 were Clavien 3a and b complications. Statistical significant association with complications was found in patients with American Society of Anestesiology (ASA) score 3 (44.5%, P = .04), longer mean operative time (OT) 195 versus 161.36 minutes (P =.03), mean postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) 10.1 versus 11.8 (P <.001), and mean ΔHb 3.59 versus 2.18 (P <.001). In multivariate logistic regression, only longer OT and ΔHb were statistical significant predictive factors for complications. In sub-group analysis, clamp-less RASE was safe in terms of complications (14.1%), positive surgical margins (1.3%), and mid-term local recurrence (1.3%). Although in this approach there is higher EBL (P = .01), this had no impact on ΔHb (P = .28). A clamp-less approach was associated with a higher rate of SIB 0 (71.8% vs 51%, P = .02), higher trifecta achievement (84.6% vs 62.7%, P = .004), and better impact on serum creatinine (mean 0.83 vs 0.91, P = .01).RASE of renal tumors is a safe technique with very good postoperative outcomes. Complication rate is low and associated with ASA score >3, longer OT, and ΔHb. RASE is suitable for the clamp-less approach, which allows to perform easier the pure enucleation (SIB 0) and to obtain higher rates of trifecta outcomes.