Positive Surgical Margins Increase Risk of Recurrence after Partial Nephrectomy for High Risk Renal Tumors

Incidence and predictors of ipsilateral local recurrence following partial nephrectomy

PURPOSE

Ipsilateral local recurrence (LR) after partial nephrectomy (PN) for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) may result from a metachronous tumor or PN bed recurrence. To date, literature has predominantly reported ipsilateral LRs collectively, although the pathophysiology and prognostic implications of these event may be distinct. We sought to assess variables associated with LR and evaluated associations of LR with metastasis and death from RCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified adults undergoing PN for unilateral, sporadic, localized RCC from 2000 to 2019 using a prospectively maintained, single institution registry. LR was defined as new, enhancing tumor within/near the PN bed on MRI/CT. Cox proportional hazards models were used to create a preoperative risk score for LR and to examine the association of LR with metastasis and CSS following PN among patients with clear cell RCC.

RESULTS

In a cohort of 2,164 PNs, 106 true LRs were identified, for a 10-year incidence of 6.2%. A preoperative risk score for LR based on age, symptoms, solitary kidney, complex tumor necessitating open partial nephrectomy, and cT stage was created (c-index = 0.73). Postoperatively, positive margins, pT stage, and clear cell subtype were associated with LR. Notably, 21% (23/106) of patients with LR presented with synchronous metastases. Following LR, 5-year metastasis-free and cancer-specific survival were 64% and 71%, respectively. LR remained associated with metastasis (HR 6.25; P < 0.001) and death from RCC (HR 1.93; P = 0.03) on multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a preoperative risk score to identify patients at risk for LR following PN. LR was an independent risk factor for metastasis and death from RCC. Further study is warranted to determine whether treatment of LR improves oncologic outcomes.

Relevance of Positive Surgical Margins in Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma After Surgical Resection: Predictive Factors and Survival Implications

INTRODUCTION

The implications of positive surgical margins (PSM) after surgery for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remain subject of discussion. This study aimed to identify risk factors for PSM, assess its effect on overall survival (OS), and determine predictors of OS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data from RCC surgeries at Mannheim University Medical Center between 2010 and 2023 was analyzed. Propensity score matching balanced PSM and control groups using age, surgical approach, tumor stage, histological subtype, and American Association of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. Logistic and cox regression models predict PSM and OS, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis compared OS of PSM patients and controls.

RESULTS

A total of 1066 RCC patients were included. Propensity score matching yielded 32 PSM patients and 96 controls. Multivariable logistic regression identified tumor stage ≥ T3a (odds ratio [OR] = 2.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.0-6.8, P = .04) and chromophobe, compared to clear cell, RCC (OR = 3.19, 95% CI = 1.0-8.7, P = .03) as independent predictors of PSM. Multivariable cox regression found age > 65 years (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.65, 95% CI = 1.7-4.2, P < .01) and tumor stage ≥ T3a (HR = 2.25, 95% CI = 1.4-3.7, P < .01) to predict shorter OS. Partial vs. radical nephrectomy was associated with improved OS (HR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.3-0.9, P = .02). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no OS difference between PSM patients and controls (P = .49) over a 45-month median follow-up.

CONCLUSION

PSM is not a primary determinant of inferior survival, while age and tumor stage play a more prominent role. A well-calibrated follow-up protocol for PSM patients, combining PSM with coinciding factors such as tumor stage, grade, size, or PSM extent, is crucial for adequate surveillance while preventing excessive interventions.

A New Nephrometry Score for Predicting Positive Surgical Margin After Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy

PURPOSE

To introduce the KESKIN ratio as a novel predictor of positive surgical margin (PSM) after laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (PN) and to evaluate other clinical characteristics and nephrometry scores (including RENAL, PADUA, and C-index) for predicting PSM.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 95 patients who underwent laparoscopic PN between June 2020 and April 2023. The KESKIN ratio was defined for all patients. The KESKIN ratio, tumor and patient-related paramaters, and nephrometry scores were analyzed to predict PSM.

RESULTS

Positive surgical margin was found in 12 of 95 patients (12.6%). There was no statistical difference between the PSM and negative surgical margin (NSM) groups in RENAL, PADUA, and C-index scores. Only the KESKIN ratio was found to be a statistically significant predictor of PSM in both univariate and multivariate regression analysis (p = 0.007 and p = 0.043, respectively). Mean endophytic diameter and endophytic percentage were found to be statistically significant predictors of PSM in only univariate analysis (p = 0.005 and p = 0.01, respectively). The value of 0.5 was determined as the cut-off value for the KESKIN ratio. Values higher than 0.5 indicate an increase in PSM.

CONCLUSIONS

The KESKIN ratio is a novel, easily measurable, and calculable image-based parameter that can be used to predict PSM after laparascopic PN. If externally validated in a larger patient population, the KESKIN ratio may be used in future versions of the current nephrometry scoring systems for predicting the PSM.

The DDD score outperforms the RENAL score in predicting high-grade renal cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

To explore the relationship between Fuhrman grade of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and the DDD score.

METHODS

We reviewed the records of 527 nonmetastatic RCC patients. Demographic, clinical, and pathologic characteristics were reviewed. Binary logistic regression was used to explore the independent risk factors for high-grade RCC (HGRCC).

RESULTS

Sex, BMI (Body Mass Index), RNS, and DDD score were significantly correlated with HGRCC. Based on these independent risk factors, we constructed two predictive models integrating the RNS and DDD scores with sex and BMI to predict tumor grade. The calibration curves of the predictive model showed good agreement between the observations and predictions. The concordance indexes (C-indexes) of the predictive models were 0.768 (95% CI, 0.713-0.824), and 0.809 (95% CI, 0.759-0.859). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were performed to compare the predictive power of the nomograms, and the prediction model including the DDD score had better prognostic ability (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that RNS, DDD score, BMI, and sex were independent predictors of HGRCC. We developed effective nomograms integrating the above risk factors to predict HGRCC. Of note, the nomogram including the DDD score achieves better prediction ability for HGRCC.

The Prognostic Impact of the Surgical Margin in Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated with Partial Nephrectomy: A Multi-Center Study

Background: Partial nephrectomy (PN) is the preferred treatment for small, localized kidney tumors. Incomplete resection resulting in positive surgical margins (PSM) can occur after PN. The impact of PSM on the risk of recurrence and survival outcomes is not fully understood. We aimed to explore the relationship between PSM, the risk of recurrence and impact on survival after PN in a large multicenter cohort from Denmark. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study including patients who underwent PN for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) at three departments in Denmark between 2010 and 2016. Data including pathological features, surgical techniques, and patient follow-up was retrieved from electronic medical health records and national databases. We used a combination of descriptive statistics, comparative analysis (comparisons were carried out by Mann-Whitney Test, independent Student's t-test, or Pearson's chi-Square Test), univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, and survival analysis methods. Results: A total of 523 patients were included, of which 48 (9.1%) had a PSM. Recurrence was observed in 55 patients (10.5%). Median follow-up time was 75 months. We found a lower incidence of PSM with robot-assisted PN (p = 0.01) compared to open or laparoscopic PN. PSM was associated with a higher risk of recurrence compared to negative margins in univariate analysis, but not multivariate analysis. However, the study was underpowered to describe this association with other risk factors. Overall survival did not differ between patients with PSM and negative margins. Conclusions: Our study presents further evidence on the negative impact of PSM on recurrence after PN for RCC, highlighting the importance of achieving NSM, thus potentially improving clinical outcomes. A surgical approach was found to be the only predictive factor influencing the risk of PSMs, with a reduced risk observed with robot-assisted laparoscopy.

Predictors of disease recurrence in high-risk non-metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients post-surgical resection A single-center, retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

Approximately 20-40% of kidney cancer patients treated for localized disease experience post-surgical recurrence. Several prognostic models exist to help clinicians determine the risk of distant recurrence, but these models vary in criteria and endpoints. We aimed to examine the recurrence rate and clinicopathologic factors as predictors of recurrence in high-risk renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center, retrospective chart review of pT3 RCC patients who underwent a nephrectomy between January 2000 and December 2015. Patients registered in clinical trials for adjuvant therapy and those with fewer than three years of followup were excluded. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and univariate and multivariate Cox regression were performed to identify the rate and predictors of disease recurrence.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight pT3 RCC patients were included, and 39 patients had recurrence with a median of 23.5 months (range 1.6-127.5). Nine patients had disease recurrence beyond 58 months. Kaplan-Meier log-rank tests identified patients with negative surgical margins and low Fuhrman nuclear grades had greater recurrence-free survival. Univariate Cox regression revealed positive surgical margins, high Fuhrman nuclear grade, and large tumor sizes were significant predictors. In the multivariate Cox regression model, high Fuhrman nuclear grade and positive surgical margins were significant predictors of recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Disease recurrence occurred in 44% of pT3-staged patients. High Fuhrman nuclear grade and positive surgical margins were associated with time to recurrence. Physicians should use prognostic models to facilitate conversations about disease recurrence and continue to monitor high-risk patients beyond the recommended five-year followup period. We recommend monitoring pT3 resected patients for up to 10 years post-surgery.

Prediction of clinically significant recurrence after partial nephrectomy. Data from the Cancer Registry of Norway with more than five years of follow-up

OBJECTIVE

To determine recurrence incidence after partial nephrectomy (PN) for renal cell carcinoma and identify predictors for local recurrence (LR) and metastasis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated a cohort of 524 patients from the Cancer Registry of Norway, who underwent PN between January 2014 and December 2015 and were followed-up for >6 years. Patient demographics and pathological characteristics were correlated with recurrence and progression-free survival using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses.

RESULTS

Median patient age was 64 years, and the median tumour size was 2.6 cm. A positive surgical margin (PSM) was observed in 11% of the cases, while the LR and metastasis rates were 3.4% and 3.2%, respectively. PSM (hazard ratio [HR], 55.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 12.55-244.6), tumour number (HR, 45.4; 95% CI, 6.5-316.1) and stage (HR, 33.5; 95% CI, 5.4-205.3) were independent predictors for LR. Undetermined margin status was also a risk factor for LR. Tumour stage (HR, 41.05; 95% CI, 8.52-197.76), tumour necrosis (HR, 1.3; 95% CI, 0.4-4.31) and age (HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01-1.14) were predictors for metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Both local and distant recurrences after PN were rare, and the pT stage was a common predictor. PSM or indeterminate surgical margin and tumour number were LR predictors, while age at surgery and the presence of tumour necrosis predicted metastasis.

Recent Advances and Applications of Ambient Mass Spectrometry Imaging in Cancer Research: An Overview

Cancer metabolic variability has a significant impact on both diagnosis and treatment outcomes. The discovery of novel biological indicators and metabolic dysregulation, can significantly rely on comprehension of the modified metabolism in cancer, is a research focus. Tissue histology is a critical feature in the diagnostic testing of many ailments, such as cancer. To assess the surgical margin of the tumour on patients, frozen section histology is a tedious, laborious, and typically arbitrary method. Concurrent monitoring of ion images in tissues facilitated by the latest advancements in mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is far more efficient than optical tissue image analysis utilized in conventional histopathology examination. This article focuses on the "desorption electrospray ionization (DESI)-MSI" technique's most recent advancements and uses in cancer research. DESI-MSI can provide wealthy information based on the variances in metabolites and lipids in normal and cancerous tissues by acquiring ion images of the lipid and metabolite variances on biopsy samples. As opposed to a systematic review, this article offers a synopsis of the most widely employed cutting-edge DESI-MSI techniques in cancer research.

Does tumor rupture during robot-assisted partial nephrectomy have an impact on mid-term tumor recurrences?

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative kidney tumor rupture (TR) can occur during robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in daily clinical practice, but there are no solid guidelines on the management and implications of it. The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of TR on tumor recurrences, what a surgeon should do if this adverse event occurs, and how to avoid it.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the first 100 patients who underwent RAPN at University Medical Centre Ljubljana, between 2018 and 2021. Patients were stratified into 2 groups (TR and no-TR) and were compared according to patient, tumor, pathologic, perioperative and postoperative characteristics and tumor recurrences, using the Mann-Whitney U test and chi-squared test.

RESULTS

Of the 100 patients, 14 had TR (14%); this occurred in tumors with higher RENAL nephrometry scores (P = 0.028) and mostly with papillary renal cell carcinomas (P = 0.043). Median warm ischemia time was longer for the TR group (22 vs. 15 min, P = 0.026). In terms of studied outcomes, there were no cases of local or distant recurrence after a median observation time of 39 months (interquartile range, 31-47 months) in both groups. We observed positive surgical margins on the final oncologic report in one case in the no-TR group.

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor rupture during RAPN seems to be of no mid-term oncologic importance. According to presented results, we would recommend surgeons to proceed with tumor resection if this event occurs and abstain from conversion to radical nephrectomy or open partial nephrectomy. However, more similar cases should be studied to make more solid conclusions.

Perioperative, Functional, and Oncologic Outcomes of On-Clamp Versus Off-Clamp Partial Nephrectomy: An Updated Meta-analysis of 9027 Patients

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the comparative efficacy and safety between on-clamp and off-clamp partial nephrectomy in patients with renal masses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This systematic review was pre-registered on The International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD42022339127). PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched. A manual search was also conducted to avoid missing relevant studies. All observational and experimental studies reporting the comparative efficacy and/or safety of on-clamp versus off-clamp partial nephrectomy were included. Outcomes were divided into 3 categories: perioperative, functional, and oncologic outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the The Risk Of Bias In Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) and revised Cochrane ROB-II tool for nonrandomized and randomized studies, respectively. Fixed- and random-effect models were implemented to pool the mean difference and log odds ratio of continuous and dichotomous outcomes, respectively. A leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine if the effect size was driven by a single study, and Egger's regression test was used to assess publication bias.

RESULTS

Forty-two studies were meta-analyzed. The on-clamping method showed greater benefit when compared to the off-clamping technique in terms of perioperative (estimated blood loss and blood transfusion), functional (estimated glomerular filtration rate), and oncologic outcomes (tumor resection time). However, it is associated with higher risk for complications. Most studies were of moderate-to-serious risk of bias.

CONCLUSION

On-clamping shows superiority in terms of estimated blood loss, blood transfusion, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and tumor resection time. However, it is associated with increased risk of complications. The selection of the technique should be tailored per individual case based on their comorbidities and preoperative risk profile.

Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy with the Newly Developed KangDuo Surgical Robot Versus the da Vinci Si Surgical System: A Double-center Prospective Randomized Controlled Noninferiority Trial

BACKGROUND

The KangDuo surgical robot (KD-SR) was recently developed in China.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the safety and efficacy of the KD-SR versus the da Vinci Si Surgical System (DV-SS-Si) for robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A double-center prospective randomized controlled noninferiority trial of patients aged 18-75 yr with a suspicion of T1a N0M0 renal cancer (RENAL nephrometry score ≤9) was conducted.

INTERVENTION

RAPN with the KD-SR versus the DV-SS-Si.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The primary endpoint was the success rate of operation. The operation was successful if (1) there was no open or laparoscopic conversion, (2) the warm ischemia time was <30 min for RENAL nephrometry scores of 4-6 or 40 min for RENAL nephrometry scores of 7-9, and (3) the pathological margin was negative. The secondary endpoint was the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). A threshold of 10% was set to demonstrate noninferiority.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

From September 2020 to March 2021, 100 participants were enrolled, of whom 99 (49 in the KD-SR group and 50 in the DV-SS-Si group) were finally included in the full analysis set and 98 (49 in the KD-SR group and -49 in the DV-SS-Si group) in the per-protocol set. Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were similar between the two groups. All surgeries were completed successfully. The eGFR at postoperative weeks 4-12 and adverse events were similar between the two groups. The docking time and suture time per stitch were longer in the KD-SR group. The main limitation was that a negative margin was considered as the primary outcome rather than survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The KD-SR achieved noninferior outcomes as compared with the DV-SS-Si regarding safety and efficacy for T1a tumors.

PATIENT SUMMARY

The first trial comparing the KangDuo surgical robot (KD-SR) versus the da Vinci Si Surgical System for robot-assisted partial nephrectomy showed that the KD-SR is a viable option for minimally invasive treatment of T1a renal tumors.

Markers of local kidney cancer recurrence: A surgeon's mistake or a pattern? Review

The influence of various morphological, anatomical, genetic and other factors on the local recurrence-free survival of patients who have undergone different renal cell cancer (RCC) treatment is still a rather complex, ambiguous and controversial issue for practicing oncourologists. This review evaluates the effect of several factors on both recurrence-free survival and local recurrence-free survival. The review includes articles, clinical cases, literature reviews, and meta-analyses highlighting the analysis of independent and interrelated predisposing factors for developing local recurrence of RCC from 1984 to 2020. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched in English, Spanish, and German. A review of the literature showed the role of the following indices in the local recurrence RCC: microvascular invasion (p = 0.001), tumor necrosis (p = 0.0001), high malignancy (Fuhrman III or IV) (HR = 38.3, 95% CI 3.1-467, p = 0.004) as histological factors, tumor size as an anatomical factor. Thus, the authors state that every centimeter of the tumor increases the risk of local recurrence (p < 0.05). A group from the Mayo Clinic showed the equivalence of different treatment methods in local RCC recurrence. Thus, in the group of patients with cT1a stage kidney cancer, the 5-year local recurrence-free survival rates were 97.7% (96.7-98.6), 95.9% (92.3-99.6), and 95.9% (92.3-99.6) for renal resection, RFA, and cryoablation, respectively. Surgical margin status is the most studied and controversial marker of local renal cell carcinoma recurrence. Researchers found a direct effect of PSM on the risk of local RCC recurrence (p < 0.01). The personalized approach with the search and evaluation of predisposing factors for the local recurrence, as well as further selection of the most optimal treatment, will allow oncourologists to improve both the effectiveness of primary treatment and the recurrence-free survival of patients.

Comparative Analysis of Trifecta Outcomes in Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy for cT1a Versus cT1b + Renal Tumours-a Single-Centre Study

Robotic assistance is being increasingly utilised for nephron-sparing surgery for complex renal masses. We evaluated the outcomes of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for cT1a versus cT1b + renal masses by a comparative analysis of trifecta outcomes between these two groups of patients. We utilised our prospectively maintained database to identify patients undergoing RAPN for cT1a (group 1, n = 41) and cT1b + (group 2, n = 37) renal masses from April 2016 to March 2020. The oncological and trifecta outcomes were analysed using appropriate statistical methods. Out of 78 patients, trifecta was achieved in 30 (38.4%) patients. There was no statistically significant difference in trifecta between cT1a and cT1b + tumours (p = 0.152). We found a statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of RENAL scores (p = 0.0005), PADUA score (p = 0.0002), and robotic console time (133.8 ± 42.8 Vs 170 ± 54.8 min for cT1a versus cT1b + , respectively) (p = 0.002). On multivariate analysis, warm ischemia time (p = 0.069), blood loss (p = 0.345), UCS repair (p = 0.691) and GFR reduction (p = 0.152) were not statistically different. There was no statistically significant difference in intraoperative and post-operative complications (p = 0.9317) or length of hospital stay (p = 0.112). Although recurrences were observed in two patients (5.4%) of the cT1b group, there was no statistical difference in the recurrence-free survival at 12 and 24 months. Our study shows that RAPN can be safely done for cT1b + renal tumours. These findings reinforce the view that RAPN should be considered a viable option for cT1b + lesions whenever technically feasible.

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.

Positive surgical margin's impact on short-term oncological prognosis after robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (MARGINS study: UroCCR no 96)

The oncological impact of positive surgical margins (PSM) after robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is still under debate. We compared PSM and Negative Surgical Margins (NSM) in terms of recurrence-free survival (RFS), metastasis-free survival (MFS) and overall survival (OS) after RAPN, and we identified predictive factors of PSM. Multi-institutional study using the UroCCR database, which prospectively included 2166 RAPN between April 2010 and February 2021 (CNIL DR 2013-206; NCT03293563). Two groups were retrospectively compared: PSM versus NSM. Prognostic factors were assessed using Kaplan-Meyer curves with log-Rank test, cox hazard proportional risk model and logistic regression after univariate comparison. 136 patients had PSM (6.3%) and 2030 (93.7%) had NSM. During a median follow-up of 19 (9-36) months after RAPN, 160 (7.4%) recurrences were reported. Kaplan-Meier curves and analysis suggested that RFS, MFS and OS were not affected by a PSM (p = 0.68; 0.71; 0.88, respectively). In multivariate analysis predictors of PSM were a lower RENAL score (p = 0.001), longer warm ischemia time (WIT) (p = 0.003) and Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma (chrRCC) (p = 0.043). This study found no impact of PSM on RFS, MFS or OS, and predictors of PSM were the RENAL score, WIT and chrRCC.

Comparison of Long-term Outcomes for Young and Healthy Patients with cT1a and cT3a Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated with Partial Nephrectomy

Partial nephrectomy (PN) is recommended for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) of <4 cm. We hypothesized that there is no difference in all-cause mortality (ACM) between cT1a, cT1b, and cT3a <4 cm RCC following PN. The National Cancer Database was interrogated to identify patients aged <60 yr with a Charlson comorbidity index ≤1 diagnosed between 2004 and 2017. Cox proportional-hazard models stratified for cT stage were used to predict 10-yr ACM. A total of 30 195 patients (25 121 cT1a, 4884 cT1b, and 190 cT3a <4 cm) who underwent PN with median follow-up of 64.36 mo (interquartile range 42.91-93.77) were included. Cox analysis revealed no significant difference in 10-yr ACM between cT1a and cT3a <4 cm (hazard ratio [HR] 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58-1.90; p = 0.88). However, the cT1b group had higher ACM (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.15-1.48; p < 0.01). The positive surgical margin (PSM) rate was higher for cT3a <4 cm than for cT1a tumors (14.2% vs 6.3%; p < 0.01). However, there was no difference in 10-yr ACM rate between cT1a and cT3a <4 cm (10.9% vs 9.7%; p = 0.42). Our results suggest that PN is an option for cT3a RCC <4 cm, particularly in cases in which maximum nephron preservation is essential, such as patients with chronic kidney disease or a solitary kidney, although a higher PSM risk should be appreciated. PATIENT SUMMARY: We found that partial removal of the kidney for localized advanced kidney cancer is safe. The rate of surgical margins positive for the presence of tumor is higher in localized advanced kidney cancer than for less advanced cancers, but there was no difference in 10-year predicted mortality.

Positive surgical margins may not affect the survival of patients with renal cell carcinoma after partial nephrectomy: A meta-analysis based on 39 studies

Background

So far, whether positive surgical margin(PSM) has adverse effects on the prognosis of patients is still controversial, so we designed this study to systematically evaluate the effect of PSM on the prognosis of patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) after partial nephrectomy (PN).

Methods

On the basis of three electronic databases (PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library) up to May 2022, all case-control studies (CCSs) comparing the effects of PSM and negative surgical margin (NSM) after PN on the oncological results of RCC patients were included. Two evaluators independently conducted a systematic literature search and extracted the data we needed. The methodological quality of all studies was evaluated by the modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The odds ratio (OR) was used to describe the results for dichotomous variables, and the meta-analysis was conducted using Cochrane Review Manager 5.2 and Stata 14.2.

Results

A total of 39 studies involving 21461 patients were included in our meta-analysis. The pooled results showed that the rates of tumor recurrence (OR 3.93, 95% CI 2.95-5.24; p < 0.00001) and metastasis (OR 4.63, 95% CI 3.11-6.88; p < 0.00001) in the PSM group were significantly higher than those in the NSM group. However, there were no significant differences in the rates of all-cause death (OR 1.35, 95% CI 0.92-1.99; p = 0.13) or cancer-specific death (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.51-1.94; p = 0.99) between the two groups. In addition, subgroup analyses were carried out according to different average follow-ups, which revealed similar results.

Conclusion

Insignificant differences in survival between the PSM and NSM groups were observed, although significant differences in recurrence and metastasis in the PSM group were reported. Our study supported that close monitoring might be another effective choice for patients with PSM after PN. Considering the possible limitations, we recommended cautious interpretation of our results.

Simultaneous robot-assisted approach in a super-elderly patient with urothelial carcinoma and synchronous contralateral renal cell carcinoma: A case report

BACKGROUND

It is rare for urothelial and renal cell carcinomas to coexist in the same patient, and even rarer for them to be detected simultaneously. Because of this rarity, a standard treatment has not been established and studies about overall survival are scarce. Therefore, physicians must modify treatments according to the individual’s situation and the stage of each disease. In recent years, with advances in the instruments and techniques, minimal invasive robotic surgeries have become available for advanced-stage or high-risk patients.

CASE SUMMARY

An 85-year-old woman with a medical history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia visited our institution. She had visited her local hospital complaining of intermittent, painless, gross hematuria that had started 3 mo earlier. On computed tomography, a right renal mass and left proximal ureteral mass with hydronephrosis were found simultaneously. We decided to perform robot-assisted surgery on both sides during one operation. Considering renal function and kidney loading, right partial nephrectomy was performed first, followed by left nephroureterectomy with bladder cuff excision. At the 6-mo follow-up, no specific symptoms were reported and dialysis was not considered. There were no unusual findings in the imaging study, and regular follow-up and imaging studies are scheduled.

CONCLUSION

This case report assessed the feasibility of simultaneous minimal invasive robotic surgery as an alternative to conventional open or laparoscopic surgery.

Outcomes for Atypical Tumor Recurrences Following Minimally Invasive Kidney Cancer Operations

Background

We managed a cohort of patients treated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for a kidney tumor presenting with atypical tumor recurrence (ATR) involving port sites, intraperitoneal carcinomatosis, and nephrectomy bed/perinephric tumor implants.

Objective

To determine the clinical characteristics, management, and oncologic outcomes for patients with localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC) who develop ATR following curative-intent MIS for partial or radical nephrectomy.

Design, setting, and participants

The study cohort comprised patients from 1999 to 2021 with localized RCC managed at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, NY, USA) after MIS for partial or radical nephrectomy who developed ATR. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: We collected data on clinicopathologic characteristics, treatments, time to ATR, and overall survival.

Results and limitations

The median age of the 58 RCC patients was 61 yr. Forty-one patients (71%) were male, 26 (45%) had robot-assisted operations, and 39 (67%) had clear cell RCC. Twenty-nine patients had stage pT1 disease (50%) and ten (17%) had positive surgical margins. The most common ATR site was perinephric/nephrectomy bed implants (n = 28, 48%). Management included: surgical resection alone (n = 11, 19%), systemic therapy alone (n = 12, 21%), surgical resection and systemic therapy (n = 17, 29%), and palliative care (n = 8, 14%). At median follow-up of 59 mo (interquartile range [IQR] 28–92), the median time to ATR was 12 mo (IQR 5–28). Overall survival at 5 yr was 69.0% (95% confidence interval 57.4–83.1%) with only nine patients alive with no evidence of disease. Limitations include the potential for referral, detection, and selection biases, as well as uncertainty regarding the true incidence of ATR.

Conclusions

ATR following MIS for partial or radical nephrectomy is an understudied, poor prognostic event which leads to a heavy treatment burden. Further investigation into its etiology and means of prevention is warranted.

Patient summary

Patients experiencing recurrence of kidney cancer in an atypical site require a heavy treatment burden and have a guarded overall prognosis. Continued research is needed to determine the precise incidence of these recurrences and identify methods for mitigating them.

Current strategies to diagnose and manage of positive surgical margins and local recurrence after partial nephrectomy

Objective

No standard strategy for diagnosis and management of positive surgical margin (PSM) and local recurrence after partial nephrectomy (PN) are reported in literature. This review aims to provide an overview of the current strategies and further perspectives on this patient setting.

Methods

A non-systematic review of the literature was completed. The research included the most updated articles (about the last 10 years).

Results

Techniques for diagnosing PSMs during PN include intraoperative frozen section, imprinting cytology, and other specific tools. No clear evidence is reported about these methods. Regarding PSM management, active surveillance with a combination of imaging and laboratory evaluation is the first option line followed by surgery. Regarding local recurrence management, surgery is the primary curative approach when possible but it may be technically difficult due to anatomy resultant from previous PN. In this scenario, thermal ablation (TA) may have the potential to circumvent these limitations representing a less invasive alternative. Salvage surgery represents a valid option; six studies analyzed the outcomes of nephrectomy on local recurrence after PN with three of these focused on robotic approach. Overall, complication rates of salvage surgery are higher compared to TA but ablation presents a higher recurrence rate up to 25% of cases that can often be managed with repeat ablation.

Conclusion

Controversy still exists surrounding the best strategy for management and diagnosis of patients with PSMs or local recurrence after PN. Active surveillance is likely to be the optimal first-line management option for most patients with PSMs. Ablation and salvage surgery both represent valid options in patients with local recurrence after PN. Conversely, salvage PN and radical nephrectomy have fewer recurrences but are associated with a higher complication rate compared to TA. In this scenario, robotic surgery plays an important role in improving salvage PN and radical nephrectomy outcomes.

Surgical margins after partial nephrectomy as prognostic factor for the risk of local recurrence in pT1 RCC: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

Purpose

To systematically review the published literature on surgical margins as a risk factor for local recurrence (LR) in patients undergoing partial nephrectomy (PN) for pT1 renal cell carcinomas (RCC).

Evidence acquisition

A systematic literature search of relevant databases (MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library) was performed according to the PRISMA criteria up to February 2022. The hypothesis was developed using the PPO method (Patients = patients with pT1 RCC undergoing PN, Prognostic factor = positive surgical margins (PSM) detected on final pathology versus negative surgical margins (NSM) and Outcome = LR diagnosed on follow-up imaging). The primary outcome was the rate of PSM and LR. The risk of bias was assessed by the QUIPS tool.

Evidence synthesis

After assessing 1525 abstracts and 409 full-text articles, eight studies met the inclusion criteria. The percentage of PSM ranged between 0 and 34.3%. In these patients with PSM, LR varied between 0 and 9.1%, whereas only 0–1.5% of LR were found in the NSM-group. The calculated odds ratio (95% confident intervals) varied between 0.04 [0.00–0.79] and 0.27 [0.01–4.76] and was statistically significant in two studies (0.14 [0.02–0.80] and 0.04 [0.00–0.79]). The quality analysis of the included studies resulted in an overall intermediate to high risk of bias and the level of evidence was overall very low. A meta-analysis was considered unsuitable due to the high heterogeneity between the included studies.

Conclusion

PSM after PN in patients with pT1 RCC is associated with a higher risk of LR. However, the evidence has significant limitations and caution should be taken with the interpretation of this data.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00345-022-04016-0.

Evaluation of the Surgical Margin Threshold for Avoiding Recurrence after Partial Nephrectomy in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma

PURPOSE

An adequate minimal surgical margin for partial nephrectomy (PN) has not yet been conclusively established. Therefore, we aimed to compare PN recurrence rates according to surgical margin status and to establish an adequate minimal surgical margin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively studied patients with clinically localized renal cell carcinoma who underwent PN between 2005 and 2014. Surgical margin width (SMW) was assessed for all surgical tissues and divided into three groups: SMW <1 mm, SMW ≥1 mm, and positive surgical margin (PSM). The data were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank tests and multivariate Cox regression models.

RESULTS

Of 748 patients (median age, 55 years; interquartile range, 46-64 years; 220 female), 704 (94.2%) and 44 (5.8%) patients had negative and PSMs, respectively. Recurrence-free survival was significantly lower in patients with PSMs (p<0.001) and was not significantly different between SMW ≥1 mm and <1 mm groups (p=0.604). PSM was a significant predictor of recurrence (hazard ratio: 8.03, 95% confidence interval: 2.74-23.56, p<0.001), in contrast to SMW <1 mm (p=0.680).

CONCLUSION

A PSM after PN significantly increases the risk of recurrence. We discovered that even a submillimeter safety surgical margin may be enough to prevent recurrence. To maximize normal renal parenchyma preservation and to avoid cancer recurrence in renal parenchymal tumor patients, PN may be a safe treatment, except for those with a PSM in the final pathology.

Partial nephrectomy and positive surgical margin, oncologic outcomes and predictors: a 15-year single institution experience

Introduction

The aim of this article was to compare oncological outcomes after partial nephrectomy between patients with positive (PSM) and negative (NSM) surgical margins.

Material and methods

In this retrospective study, the data of 733 patients who underwent partial nephrectomy with diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) were analyzed. A total of 80 patients from the NSM group were matched to 42 PSM patients. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate freedom from local disease recurrence and metastatic progression and overall survival. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the predictors for recurrence/metastasis.

Results

The mean age was 58.4 ±11.4 years (range: 29 to 82). Median follow-up was 24 months (IQ_25-75: 15–36.2). A total of 5 patients from the PSM group (6.2%) developed local recurrence and metastasis was detected in 2 (2.5%) of them while no metastasis or recurrence was observed in the NSM group. In the multivariate analysis, positive surgical margin was the only independent predictor for recurrence/metastasis (HR[CI] = 0.19[0.04–0.75], p = 0.019). Recurrence-free survival was higher in the NSM group (100% for the NSM group vs 88.1%, p = 0.002) and recurrence/metastasis-free survival was also higher in the NSM group (100% for the NSM group vs 85.7%, p = 0.001), but there were no differences in overall survival between the two groups (96.3% for the NSM group vs 97.6% for the PSM group, p = 0.68).

Conclusions

Although tumor recurrence was more prevalent in positive surgical margin patients who underwent partial nephrectomy, there were no differences in overall survival between the two groups. Therefore, active surveillance against further surgery would be a proper option after finding the tumor-involved margins.

Development and validation of a nomogram to predict postoperative cancer-specific survival of patients with nonmetastatic T3a renal cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

To establish a nomogram for the prediction of postoperative cancer-specific survival (CSS) in patients with nonmetastatic T3a renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database were searched for patients with pT3aN0-1M0 RCC between 2010 and 2018. The patients were randomly stratified into the training and verification group (7:3 ratio). Using Cox regression analysis, the predictors for the CSS in the training group were integrated to establish the nomogram for predicting the 3-year and 5-year CSS. Harrell's concordance index (C-index), time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve, decision curve analysis, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were used to evaluate the nomogram performance.

RESULTS

A total of 5,791 pT3aN0-1M0 RCC cases with eligible data were selected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Age, tumor size, surgery type, Fuhrman grade, histological type, sarcomatoid, N stage, and invasion patterns were identified as the significant predictors for CSS to establish the nomogram. The C-indices of the nomogram were 0.774 (95% CI: 0.753-0.795) and 0.777 (95% CI: 0.745-0.809) for the training and verification group, respectively. The calibration of the nomogram revealed consistency between the predicted and observed survival. The area under the 3-year and 5-year CSS receiver operating characteristic curves were 0.773 and 0.786 in the training group, respectively. Decision curve analysis showed the optimal application of the model in clinical decision-making. According to the cutoff values of prognostic indices, patients with low-risk showed better CSS than those with high-risk in both training and verification groups (both P< 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The current nomogram could effectively predict the CSS of patients with nonmetastatic T3a RCC, and could be used to identify patients who might need a compact interval of follow-up and postoperative adjuvant systemic treatment. The limitations included the retrospective nature, absence of external validation, and several unmeasured variables related to the selection bias of surgery type. The results should be interpreted with caution.

Comparison of Perioperative, Renal Functional, and Oncological Outcomes Between Off-Clamp and On-Clamp Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy for Renal Tumors: An Updated Evidence-Based Analysis

Objectives

We aimed to report the latest and largest pooled analysis and evidence update to compare the perioperative, renal functional, and oncological outcomes between off-clamp and on-clamp robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for renal tumors.

Patients and methods

We performed a systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science up to August 2021 for studies that compared the efficacy and/or safety between off-clamp and on-clamp RAPN for renal tumors. Outcomes measured were operating time, estimated blood loss (EBL), conversion rate, length of stay (LOS), complication rate, transfusion rate, long-term % decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), positive surgical margin rate, and recurrence rate.

Results

A total of 21 eligible articles involving 4,493 patients (1,274 off-clamp versus 3,219 on-clamp) were included for the evidence synthesis. Baseline characteristics of the two groups were similar in all outcomes except that lower R.E.N.A.L. score and smaller tumor size were observed in the off-clamp group. Pooled analysis showed shorter operative time, higher EBL, and lower complication rate in the off-clamp group. No significant difference was observed in the conversion rate, LOS, and transfusion rate. The recurrence rates were similar in the two groups, while a lower positive surgical margin rate was observed in the off-clamp group. Finally, the off-clamp group had a superior postoperative renal functional outcome.

Conclusions

Given the presence of heterogeneity and potential bias, urologists should select the clamp strategy based on their experience and patient-specific factors.

Practical evaluation of the R.E.N.A.L. score system in 150 laparoscopic nephron sparing surgeries

INTRODUCTION

Nephrometric scores play an interesting role in nephron sparring surgery (NSS) planning. The aim of this study is to evaluate if R.E.N.A.L. score (RS) is capable to predict the occurrence of adverse events in laparoscopic NSS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively studied 150 laparoscopic NSS between 2015 and 2018 to evaluate the relationship between RS and incidence of adverse events. Clavien 3 or superior complications, warm ischemia time (WIT) over 30 minutes, tumor violation, positive surgical margins (PSM) and necessity of amplification of renal parenchyma during the resection of the masses to obtain free margins were considered as adverse events. We compared each item of the RS isolated and divided the patients between low risk and high risk.

RESULTS

Adverse results occurred in 48 cases (32%). Amplification of the margin of resection was observed in 28 cases (19%). WIT exceeded 30 minutes in 9 cases (6.1%), complications Clavien 3 or superior occurred in 13 cases (9%) and PSM were detected en 6 cases (4%). Comparing the patients with adverse outcomes and each item of the RS we did not find any statistical difference, but when divided into high risk and low risk, we found that patients in the high risk group had a higher tendency to present ad-verse results - 25.84% vs. 44.26% (p=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

RS system is a good way to predict adverse outcomes in NSS, especially in cases over 7. Further studies should focus on robotic approach and patient's characteristics other than the masses' aspects.

Nephrometric score based on 3D modeling (3D nephrometry score) for the probability prediction of intra- and postoperative complications for kidney surgery

AIM

The purpose of the study is the development and evaluation of the informativeness of the author's 3D nephrometric score application to predict the probability of intraoperative and postoperative complications in kidney operations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study includes 264 patients who underwent surgical treatment of renal tumors, before that CT and 3D modeling were carried out. All patients underwent an analysis of the surgical intervention complexity on the C-index, PADUA, R.E.N.A.L., and developed 3D nephrometric score. To determine the set of variables that allow to classify patients, the method of discriminant analysis was used to predict the nature, volume of blood loss, duration of ischemia, and the number of complications. The sensitivity and specificity of the predictors were estimated with the help of ROC analysis.

RESULTS

Indicators have been established to classify patients according to the probability of complications, the amount of blood loss and the duration of ischemia during surgery for kidney cancer. We have created linear models that predict the development of bleeding during surgery, the volume of blood loss of more than 200 ml and the duration of ischemia more than 20 min, as well as the likelihood of complications using discriminant functions. The proposed author's nephrometric score exceeds the capabilities of C-index, PADUA, R.E.N.A.L in many ways in blood loss and time of ischemia predicting, which allows us to recommend it for the assessment of resectability in kidney operations.

Comparison of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy for complex (RENAL scores ≥10) and non-complex renal tumors: A single-center experience

OBJECTIVES

To compare functional and surgical outcomes of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy for complex tumors with RENAL scores ≥10 and non-complex tumors at a single academic institution.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the data of all patients who underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy at Kobe University Hospital (Kobe, Hyogo, Japan) from 2011 to 2020. Functional and surgical outcomes for complex tumors (RENAL score ≥10) were compared with those of patients with non-complex tumors (RENAL <10). Outcomes analyzed included blood loss, warm ischemia time, console time, perioperative complications, and preoperative and postoperative renal function.

RESULTS

A total of 348 patients were included in our present study, with a median follow-up time of 35.1 months. Of these, 299 patients (85.9%) had non-complex tumors and 49 patients (14.1%) had complex tumors. Warm ischemia time and console time were significantly longer in the complex tumors group. Major perioperative complications (Clavien-Dindo classification system ≥3) were significantly more frequent in the complex tumors group than the non-complex tumor group (16.3% vs 5.7%, P = 0.018). Postoperative preservation of estimated glomerular filtration rate and percentage of chronic kidney disease upstage by 1 year were significantly inferior in the complex tumors group. The positive surgical margin rate was 0% and 0.3% in the complex and non-complex tumor groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in recurrence-free survival between the two groups (P = 0.11).

CONCLUSIONS

Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy for complex renal tumors is safe, with no difference in oncological outcomes, although more postoperative complications and decreased renal function can be observed than non-complex tumors.

Does a Positive Surgical Margin After Nephron Sparing Surgery Affect Oncological Outcome in Renal Cell Carcinoma? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

We systematically evaluated the impact of positive surgical margins (PSM) on oncological outcomes after partial nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma. Forty-two studies comprising 101,153 subjects were included and five distinct meta-analyses were performed. PSM was associated with increased risk of local recurrence (hazard ratio (HR) 6.11-high certainty), metastasis (HR 3.29-moderate certainty), overall relapse (HR 2.25-high certainty), overall mortality (HR 1.30-moderate certainty), and may be associated with increased cancer-specific mortality (HR 1.91-low certainty). Patients with PSM should be counseled for the possibility of additional surgery, novel adjuvant therapies, and more rigorous surveillance.

Oncological Outcomes of Patients With Different Pathological Features of pT3a Renal Tumor: A Systematic Review and Quantitative Synthesis

Purpose

To identify the differences in oncological outcomes for patients with different pT3a renal tumor invasion patterns and pathological features.

Methods

The protocol of this study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021234475). Relevant studies were identified by searching the PubMed, Cochrane library, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Cancer-specific survival (CSS) was selected as the endpoint. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) extracted from multivariate Cox models were evaluated to identify the hazard association.

Results

A total of 22 studies, which enrolled 12384 patients were included for quantitative synthesis. Sinus fat invasion (SFI) + perinephric fat invasion (PFI) was associated with inferior CSS compared to SFI only (p = 0.02). Comparable CSS was observed between SFI and PFI (p = 0.57). SFI ± PFI showed inferior CSS compared to PFI only (p = 0.0002). The presence of pelvicalyceal system invasion significantly increased the risk of cancer-specific mortality (p = 0.0005). Renal vein invasion (RVI) indicated poor oncological outcomes in terms of CSS (p = 0.002). The concomitant RVI and fat invasion (FI) significantly increased the risk of deterioration of CSS compared to RVI or FI (p < 0.0001). Multiple invasion patterns translated into a significantly decreased CSS (p < 0.0001). Aggressive tumor behavior, including lymph node involvement (p = 0.006), distant metastases (p < 0.00001), sarcomatoid differentiation (p < 0.0001), necrosis (p < 0.0001), Fuhrman grade III or IV (p < 0.0001), positive margin (p < 0.0001), and tumor size >7cm (p < 0.0001) were the predictors of inferior CSS. The lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.67) was indolent in terms of CSS.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the heterogenicity of pT3a renal tumors. Multiple invasion patterns could translate into a significantly decreased CSS, and SFI should not be merged in the SFI + PFI group. The presence of PSI or RVI could significantly increase the risk of cancer-specific mortality. Lymph node involvement, distant metastases, sarcomatoid differentiation, necrosis, high Fuhrman grade, positive margin, and size >7cm were the predictors of inferior CSS. A precise-risk grade of CSS for different invasion patterns including comprehensive combinations may be useful for the further refinements of the TNM system.

Systematic Review Registration

The current study was registered on PROSPERO, and the registration numbers is CRD42021234475.

Positive Surgical Margins After Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy Predict Long-Term Oncologic Outcomes for Clinically Localized Renal Masses

Introduction: For patients with clinically localized renal masses, positive surgical margins (PSMs) after robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) have been associated with a higher risk of disease recurrence, although some studies have challenged this conclusion. Owing to inconsistent reports and a lack of long-term robotic data, the clinical impact of PSM after RPN remains uncertain. We evaluate long-term (>6 years) survival outcomes after RPN in patients with clinically localized disease with respect to surgical margin status. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent RPN for clinically localized renal masses from June 2007 to December 2012 at Washington University School of Medicine. Disease recurrence and overall survival (OS) were stratified on the presence or absence of PSM. The cohort was analyzed to identify patient- and tumor-specific characteristics associated with PSM. Results: We identified 374 RPNs performed from 2007 to 2012 with a mean follow-up time of 77.7 months (SD 32.2 months). PSM was identified in 12 (3.2%) patients. Patients with PSM were at 14-fold increased risk for recurrence with no difference in OS (p < 0.001, p = 0.130, respectively). Patients with PSM had higher incidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (25% vs 6.4%) and greater blood loss (425 mL vs 203 mL). Conclusion: With an extended follow-up period of 77 months after RPN, we found that PSM substantially increased the risk of recurrence without impacting OS. Our finding that PSM may occur more frequently in older patients with COPD must be confirmed in larger studies.

Triggers of Cardiovascular Diseases in Rheumatoid Arthritis

The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is higher than that in patients without RA, and it is even higher than that in patients with diabetes. Autoimmune-mediated inflammation is observed in patients with RA, resulting in endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and activation, and vascular migration of white blood cells. Traditionally, RA-associated CVD was assumed to be mediated by disease-related inflammation, resulting in atherosclerosis (AS). However, this concept has been challenged because treatment with anti-rheumatic drugs, such as methotrexate or proinflammatory cytokine antagonists, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors, did not reduce the risk of CVD in patients with RA. Current cardiovascular guidelines recommend screening and treatment of CVD risk factors in patients with RA but without clear biomarkers and treatment goals. There is no scientific basis for establishing therapeutic targets for cardiovascular risk factors in RA. Numerous studies have shown that the mechanism of early cardiac dysfunction in patients with RA may occur prior to AS. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the related mechanisms to prevent early cardiac dysfunction in patients with RA.

Tumor volume: a new prognostic factor of oncological outcome of localized clear cell renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is one of the most frequent malignancies; however, the present prognostic factors was deficient. This study aims to explore whether there is a relationship between tumor volume (TV) and oncological outcomes for localized ccRCC.

METHODS

Seven hundred forty-nine localized ccRCC patients underwent surgery in our hospital. TV was outlined and calculated using a three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy planning system. We used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to identified optimal cut-off value. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models were performed to explore the association between TV and oncological outcomes. Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to estimate survival probabilities and determine the significance, respectively. Time-dependent ROC curve was utilized to assess the prognostic effect.

RESULTS

Log rank test showed that higher Fuhrman grade, advanced pT classification and higher TV were associated with shortened OS, cancer-specific survival (CSS), freedom from metastasis (FFM) and freedom from local recurrence (FFLR). multivariable analysis showed higher Fuhrman grade and higher TV were predictors of adverse OS and CSS. The AUC of TV for FFLR was 0.822. The AUC of TV (0.864) for FFM was higher than that of pT classification (0.818) and Fuhrman grade (0.803). For OS and CSS, the AUC of TV was higher than that of Fuhrman grade (0.832 vs. 0.799; 0.829 vs 0.790).

CONCLUSIONS

High TV was an independent predictor of poor CSS, OS, FFLR and FFM of localized ccRCC. Compared with pT classification and Fuhrman grade, TV could be a new and better prognostic factor of oncological outcome of localized ccRCC, which might contribute to tailored follow-up or management strategies.

The therapeutic significance of the novel photodynamic material TPE-IQ-2O in tumors

Combination therapies based on photodynamic therapy (PDT) have received much attention in various cancers due to their strong therapeutic effects. Here, we aimed to explore the safety and effectiveness of a new mitochondria-targeting photodynamic material, TPE-IQ-2O, in combination therapies (combined with surgery or immunotherapy). The safety and effectiveness of TPE-IQ-2O PDT were verified with cytotoxicity evaluation in vitro and a zebrafish xenograft model in vivo, respectively. The effectiveness of TPE-IQ-2O PDT combined with surgery or immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) was verified in tumor-bearing mice. Small animal in vivo imaging, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry were used to determine the underlying mechanism. TPE-IQ-2O PDT can not only reduce tumor recurrence in surgical treatment but also effectively improve the response to ICIs in immunotherapy without obvious toxicity. It was also found to ameliorate the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and promote the antitumor immunity induced by ICIs by increasing CD8⁺ tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte accumulation. Thus, TPE-IQ-2O PDT is a safe and effective antitumor therapy that can be combined with surgery or immunotherapy.

Impact of margin status on survival after radical nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Data about the impact of surgical margin positivity on patient outcomes following radical nephrectomy (RN) for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is limited. We evaluate the effect of positive surgical margins (PSMs) on relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS.) METHODS: Clinicopathologic data of patients who underwent RN for RCC was analyzed based on margin status. χ² and Student t test were used to compare groups. Cox regression analysis was used for the analysis. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival curves.

RESULTS

A total of 485 patients who underwent RN for RCC were analyzed. Most patients with T1/T2 stage had NSM. Most patients with T4 had PSM. T3 patients were split between the two groups. Analysis of the T3 group showed shorter RFS in the PSM group at 3 years (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.3, p = .01), and 5 years (HR: 4.3, p = .01.) OS analysis showed worse OS in PSM but not statistically significant. There was a significant association between PSM and laterality (p = .023) and histologic type (p = .025.) CONCLUSIONS: PSM was associated with shorter RFS after RN in T3 RCC patients. There was a trend towards worse OS in the PSM group, but it did not reach statistical significance. Laterality and histologic type were associated with surgical margin status.

Selective Trafficking of Light Chain-Conjugated Nanoparticles to the Kidney and Renal Cell Carcinoma

Specific delivery platforms for drugs to the kidney and diagnostic agents to renal cell carcinoma (RCC) constitute urgent but unfulfilled clinical needs. To address these challenges, we engineered nanocarriers that interact selectively for the first time with proximal tubule epithelial cells (PTECs) in the kidney and with RCC through the interplay between lambda light chains (LCs) attached to PEGylated polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles and the membrane protein megalin. Systemic administration of these light chain-conjugated nanoparticles (LC-NPs) to mice resulted in their specific retention by megalin-expressing PTECs for seven days. Repetitive dosing of LC-NPs demonstrated no renal toxicity. LC-NPs also localized selectively to megalin-expressing RCC tumors in mice. Moreover, we confirmed that both the primary tumor and lymph node metastases of human RCC express megalin, reinforcing the potential of LC-NPs for clinical use. Thus, LC-NPs can contribute potentially to improving the management of both non-oncologic and oncologic renal disorders.

Impact of Positive Surgical Margins After Partial Nephrectomy

Background

The impact of positive surgical margins (PSMs) after partial nephrectomy (PN) is controversial.

Objective

To evaluate the risk factors for a PSM and its impact on overall survival.

Design, setting, and participants

This is a retrospective study of 388 patients were submitted to PN between November 2005 and December 2016 in a single centre. Two groups were created: PSM and negative surgical margin (NSM) after PN. A p value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

Relationships with outcome were assessed using univariable and multivariable tests and log-rank analysis.

Results and limitations

The PSM rate was 3.8% (N = 16). The mean age at the time of surgery (PSM group: 64.1 ± 11.3 vs NSM group: 61.8 ± 12.8 yr, p =  0.5) and the mean radiological tumour size (4.0 ± 1.5 vs 3.4 ± 1.8 cm, p =  0.2) were similar. Lesion location (p =  0.3), surgical approach (p =  0.4), warm ischaemia time (p =  0.9), and surgery time (p =  0.06) had no association with PSM. However, higher surgeon experience was associated with a lower PSM incidence (2.6% if ≥30 PNs vs 9.6% if <30 PNs; p =  0.02). Higher operative blood loss (p =  0.02), higher-risk tumours (p =  0.03), and larger pathological size (p =  0.05) were associated with an increase in PSM. In the PSM group, recurrence rate (18.7% vs 4.2%, p =  0.007) and secondary total nephrectomy rate (25% vs 4.4%, p <  0.001) were higher. However, overall survival was similar. Multivariate analysis revealed that high-risk tumour (p =  0.05) and low experience (p =  0.03) could predict a PSM. Limitations include retrospective design and reduced follow-up time.

Conclusions

PSMs were mainly associated with high-risk pathological tumour (p =  0.05) and low-volume surgeon experience. Recurrence rate and need for total nephrectomy were higher in that group, but no impact on survival was noticed.

Patient summary

The impact of positive surgical margins (PSMs) after partial nephrectomy is a matter of debate. In this study, we found that PSMs were mainly associated with aggressive disease and low surgeon experience.

Robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) and standardization of outcome reporting: a prospective, observational study on reaching the "Trifecta and Pentafecta"

Partial nephrectomy (PN) for small renal masses is common, but outcomes are not reported in a standard manner. Traditionally, parameters such as 90-day mortality, blood loss, transfusion rates, length of stay, nephrometry scoring and complications are published but their collective impact on warm ischemia time (WIT) and post-surgery GFR is rarely determined. Thus, our aim was to assess if “Trifecta” and “Pentafecta” outcomes could be used as useful surgical outcome markers. A prospective database of 252 Robotic-Assisted PN (RAPN) cases (2008–2019) was analysed. “Pentafecta” was defined as achievement of “Trifecta” (negative surgical margin, no postoperative complications and WIT of < 25 min) plus over 90% estimated GFR preservation and no CKD stage upgrading at 1 year. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to predict factors which may prevent achieving a Trifecta/Pentafecta. Median tumour size was 3 cm and mean WIT was 15 min. Positive surgical margins (PSM) occurred in 2 cases. Overall, the intra-operative complication rate was 7%. One recurrence conferred 5-year cancer-free survival of 97%. Trifecta outcome was achieved in 169 (67%) and Pentafecta in 141 (56%) of cases. At logistic regression analysis, intraoperative blood loss was the only factor to affect Trifecta achievement (p = 0.018). Advanced patient age negatively impacted Pentafecta achievement (p = 0.010). The Trifecta and Pentafecta outcomes are easily applicable to PN data, and offer an internationally comparable PN outcome, quality measure. We recommend applying this standardization to national data collection to improve the quality of reporting and ease of interpretation of surgeon/centres’ outcomes.

Perioperative and Mid-term Oncological and Functional Outcomes After Partial Nephrectomy for Complex (PADUA Score ≥10) Renal Tumors: A Prospective Multicenter Observational Study (the RECORD2 Project)

BACKGROUND

Partial nephrectomy (PN) for complex renal masses has a non-negligible risk of perioperative complications. Furthermore, late functional and oncological outcomes of patients submitted to these challenging surgeries still remain to be determined.

OBJECTIVES

To report the perioperative and mid-term oncological and functional outcomes of PN for complex masses (Preoperative Aspects and Dimensions Used for an Anatomical [PADUA] score≥10) in a large multicenter prospective observational study.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We prospectively evaluated patients treated with PN for complex renal tumors at 26 urological centers (Registry of Conservative and Radical Surgery for Cortical Renal Tumor Disease [RECORD2] project).

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Multivariate logistic regression analyses explored the predictors of surgical complications. Multivariable Cox regression analyses estimated the hazard of renal function loss and disease recurrence. Kaplan-Meier estimates assessed the probability of survival.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

In total, 410 patients who underwent PN for complex masses were evaluated. Clinical T1b and T2 tumors accounted for 43.2% and 9.8% of the cases. Overall, 45.9%, 18.8%, and 35.4% of patients underwent open, laparoscopic, and robotic PN, respectively. Intraoperative complications occurred in 15 (3.6%) patients, while postoperative surgical complications were recorded in 76 (18.5%) patients. At multivariable analysis, preoperative hemoglobin (odds ratio [OR]: 0.67; p<0.001) and open (OR: 3.91; p<0.001) versus robotic surgical approach were found to be the only predictors of surgical complications. An estimated glomerular filtration rate drop of >25% from baseline was observed in 30.2% and 17.6% of patients at 1st month and 2 yr after surgery, respectively. Two-year recurrence-free survival was 97.1%; positive surgical margins (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.35; p=0.009), nucleolar grading (HR: 5.61; p<0.001), and tumor stage (HR: 2.62; p=0.05) were associated with recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

In a large series, PN for complex renal masses was a safe technique with an acceptable rate of perioperative complications and excellent mid-term oncological and functional results.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this study, we evaluated peri- and postoperative outcomes of patients treated with partial nephrectomy for complex renal masses. Open surgery was associated with higher complications than the robotic approach. Some histological features were found to be associated with disease recurrence.

Impact of positive surgical margins on survival after partial nephrectomy in localized kidney cancer: analysis of the National Cancer Database

BACKGROUND

The impact of positive surgical margins (PSM) on outcomes in partial nephrectomy (PN) is controversial. We investigated impact of PSM for patients undergoing PN on overall survival (OS) in different stages of renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients from the US National Cancer Database who underwent PN for cT1a-cT2b N0M0 RCC between 2004-13. Patients were stratified by pathological stage (pT1a, pT1b, pT2a, pT2b, and pT3a [upstaged]) and analyzed by margin status. Cox Regression multivariable analysis (MVA) was performed to investigate associations of PSM and covariates on all-cause mortality (ACM). Kaplan-Meier analysis (KMA) of OS was performed for PSM versus negative margin (NSM) by pathological stage. Sub-analysis of Charlson Comorbidity Index 0 (CCI=0) subgroup was conducted to reduce bias from comorbidities.

RESULTS

We analyzed 42,113 PN (pT1a: 33,341 [79.2%]; pT1a, pT1b: 6689 [15.9%]; pT2a: 757 [1.8%]; pT2b: 165 [0.4%]; and pT3a: upstaged 1161 [2.8%]). PSM occurred in 6.7% (2823) (pT1a: 6.5%, pT1b: 6.3%, pT2a: 5.9%, pT2b: 6.1%, pT3a: 14.1%, P<0.001). On MVA, PSM was associated with 31% increase in ACM (HR 1.31, P<0.001), which persisted in CCI=0 sub-analysis (HR: 1.25, P<0.001). KMA revealed negative impact of PSM vs. NSM on 5-year OS: pT1 (87.3% vs. 90.9%, P<0.001), pT2 (86.7% vs. 82.5%, P=0.48), and upstaged pT3a (69% vs. 84.2%, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

PSM after PN was independently associated with across-the-board decrement in OS, which worsened in pT3a disease and persisted in sub-analysis of patients with CCI=0. PSM should prompt more aggressive surveillance or definitive resection strategies.

Identification of diagnostic metabolic signatures in clear cell renal cell carcinoma using mass spectrometry imaging

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common and lethal subtype of kidney cancer. Intraoperative frozen section (IFS) analysis is used to confirm the diagnosis during partial nephrectomy. However, surgical margin evaluation using IFS analysis is time consuming and unreliable, leading to relatively low utilization. In our study, we demonstrated the use of desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI) as a molecular diagnostic and prognostic tool for ccRCC. DESI-MSI was conducted on fresh-frozen 23 normal tumor paired nephrectomy specimens of ccRCC. An independent validation cohort of 17 normal tumor pairs was analyzed. DESI-MSI provides two-dimensional molecular images of tissues with mass spectra representing small metabolites, fatty acids and lipids. These tissues were subjected to histopathologic evaluation. A set of metabolites that distinguish ccRCC from normal kidney were identified by performing least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) and log-ratio Lasso analysis. Lasso analysis with leave-one-patient-out cross-validation selected 57 peaks from over 27,000 metabolic features across 37,608 pixels obtained using DESI-MSI of ccRCC and normal tissues. Baseline Lasso of metabolites predicted the class of each tissue to be normal or cancerous tissue with an accuracy of 94 and 76%, respectively. Combining the baseline Lasso with the ratio of glucose to arachidonic acid could potentially reduce scan time and improve accuracy to identify normal (82%) and ccRCC (88%) tissue. DESI-MSI allows rapid detection of metabolites associated with normal and ccRCC with high accuracy. As this technology advances, it could be used for rapid intraoperative assessment of surgical margin status.

Upstaging to pT3a in Patients Undergoing Partial or Radical Nephrectomy for cT1 Renal Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Outcomes and Predictive Factors

CONTEXT

Predictors of upstaging from cT1 to pT3a renal masses are poorly inquired, and this remains an area of controversial findings.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate predictors and outcomes of upstaging from cT1 to pT3a in patients undergoing surgical removal of a renal tumor.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant articles using three electronic engines (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science). Only studies looking at upstaging to pT3a in patients undergoing either partial nephrectomy (PN) or radical nephrectomy (RN) for cT1 renal tumor were included. Study selection was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Thirteen studies, including 21869 patients (cT1/pT3a: 1256 [5.7%]; cT1/pT1: 20613 [93.3%]), were identified. Patients in the upstaged group were older (weighted mean difference [WMD]: 3.89; p < 0.00001) and mostly male (odds ratio [OR]: 1.23; p = 0.04). Renal tumors were larger (WMD: 0.98; p < 0.00001), more complex (OR: 2.38; p < 0.0001), and with a higher rate of cT1b masses (OR: 3.36; p < 0.00001). The cT1/pT3a group had a higher rate of other renal cell carcinoma histological subtypes (OR: 1.59; p = 0.04), as well as higher odds of Fuhrman grade ≥3 (OR: 2.57; p < 0.00001) and positive surgical margins (OR: 1.85; p = 0.007). Five-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) was worse in the upstaged group (OR: 0.31; p = 0.02). Age (OR: 1.03; p < 0.00001), tumor size (OR: 1.51; p < 0.00001), and RENAL score (OR: 2.80; p = 0.0004) were predictors of upstaging. Upstaging was associated with overall survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.94; p = 0.05), cancer-specific survival (HR: 2.24; p = 0.007), and RFS (HR: 2.17; p < 0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

Upstaging to pT3a in case of surgical removal of a cT1 renal tumor is an uncommon event, which however can translate into worse oncological outcomes. Both patient (older age) and tumor (larger size and higher complexity) characteristics are associated with a higher risk of upstaging. There is very limited evidence regarding whether RN would be better than PN in these cases. There remains an unmet need for tools to better characterize renal masses in the preoperative setting.

PATIENTS SUMMARY

About 6% of surgically treated localized renal tumors can be found to be locally advanced on final pathology after surgery. This "upstaging" can translate into worse oncological outcomes. There are patient and tumor characteristics that are associated with an increased the risk of upstaging.

Long-term oncologic outcomes of positive surgical margins following robot-assisted partial nephrectomy

Background

Previous reports on positive surgical margin (PSM) after robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) have reached inconsistent conclusions as to the impact of a PSM on oncologic outcomes. We sought to determine the effect of PSM on long-term cancer recurrence and survival outcomes.

Methods

We queried our renal oncology database for patients having undergone RAPN and compared recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) between patients with PSM and negative surgical margin (NSM). Kaplan-Meier analysis was also performed for RFS and OS for PSM versus NSM.

Results

Of the 432 patients who underwent RAPN we identified 29 (6.7%) patients with PSM and 403 (93.3%) patients with NSM. Median follow-up for the overall cohort was 45.1 months. Three of the 29 patients with PSM and fourteen of the 403 patients with NSM had disease recurrence (P=0.09). RFS at 24, 48, and 72 months was 95.8%, 90%, and 85.5% for patients with NSM and 96.6%, 86.6%, and 80.4% for patients with PSM, respectively (log-rank P value =0.382). OS at 24, 48, and 72 months was 98%, 93.1%, and 89.7% for patients with NSM and 96.3%, 91.2%, and 85.2% for patients with PSM, respectively (log-rank P value =0.584).

Conclusions

While PSM are relatively uncommon, their presence still serves as a potential risk factor for worse oncologic outcomes. In instances of PSM, immediate secondary intervention is most likely unnecessary and more attentive long-term clinical follow-up, especially in patients with high-risk features, may be more advisable.

The Clinicopathological Risk Factors in Renal Cell Cancer for the Oncological Outcomes Following Nephron-Sparing Surgery: A PRISMA Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Objectives: Published data from individual studies present conflicting evidence about the relationship between clinicopathological risk factors and oncological outcomes in renal cell cancer (RCC) following nephron-sparing surgery (NSS). This study was conducted to explore the potential risk factors for RCC progress after NSS. Methods: Studies published in PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE were systematically reviewed from inception to March 2019 to determine risk factors for RCC following NSS. The predictive ability of identified predictors was assessed by hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A fixed-effect or random-effect was used to pool the estimates. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore the source of heterogeneity. Results: Seventeen studies including 38,522 patients with RCC were analyzed. The meta-analysis indicated that positive surgical margin (pooled HR = 1.47; 95% CI:1.24-1.73; P < 0.001), higher Fuhrman grade (pooled HR = 1.58; 95% CI:1.10-2.28; P = 0.013), higher pathological stage (pooled HR = 1.72; 95% CI:1.40-2.12; P < 0.001) and large tumor size (pooled HR = 1.09; 95% CI:1.03-1.16; P = 0.003) were significantly associated with recurrence risk. However, age (pooled HR = 1.00; 95% CI: 1.00-1.01; P = 0.257), sex (male vs. female) (pooled HR = 1.04; 95% CI: 0.89-1.21; P = 0.605) and surgical approach (laparoscope vs. open) (pooled HR = 0.80; 95% CI: 0.59-1.07; P = 0.129) had no effect on recurrence after NSS. In addition, we found that positive surgical margin was significantly associated with recurrence-free survival (pooled HR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.32-2.66; P < 0.001) and overall mortality (pooled HR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.07-1.23; P < 0.001), as well as large tumor size for recurrence-free survival (pooled HR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.06-1.30; P = 0.002)and overall mortality (pooled HR = 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00-1.02; P = 0.004). Conclusions: Unfavorable pathological characteristics were distinctly related to worse oncological outcomes in RCC patients following NSS. These results may contribute to proposed prediction models for RCC patients to aid in counseling and risk stratification.

Survival Analysis of Pathological T3a Upstaging in Clinical T1 Renal Cell Carcinoma

AIM

To evaluate the oncological outcomes of pathological T3a upstaging from clinical T1 renal cell carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively studied patients who underwent radical or partial nephrectomy for clinical T1 renal tumors.

RESULTS

The median follow-up period was 44 months. At three and five years, the respective overall survival rate was 88.7% and 82.4% in pT3a disease, 95.7% and 93.4% in pT1 (p=0.008), the cancer-specific survival rate, 93.9% and 90.8% in pT3a, 99% and 97.7% in pT1 (p=0.001), and the recurrence-free survival rate, 79.7% and 71.0% in pT3a, and 95.5 and 94.3% in pT1 (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Patients with pathological T3a upstaging tumors were associated with a significantly decreased survival rate, along with a higher recurrence rate when compared to those with pathological T1 disease.