Laparoscopic versus open radical nephrectomy for large renal tumors: a long-term prospective comparison

[Treatment of localized renal cell carcinoma]

BACKGROUND

Both partial nephrectomy (pNx) and total nephrectomy (TNx) are the mainstay of the surgical treatment of renal cell carcinoma. In smaller masses, ablative treatment as well as surveillance are possible options.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to provide a closer look at the surgical methods, active surveillance and ablative options as well as the current evidence to support their use.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study is based on a selective literature review regarding pNx and TNx for renal cell carcinoma using the PubMed database and the review of current European and American guidelines on surgical treatment and conservative options for renal cell carcinoma.

RESULTS

The choice of surgical method depends on the intrarenal tumor configuration as well as patient comorbidities. While pNx is used for smaller localized masses TNx is usually performed in larger more complex tumors. Both methods can be performed using a minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotically assisted) or an open approach. In patients with severe comorbidities or a limited life expectancy, local ablative treatment options as well as surveillance strategies are suitable strategies.

Evaluation of predictive factors for i-CLARAS (intraoperative complications in laparoscopic renal and adrenal surgery): a multicentre international retrospective cohort study

The laparoscopic approach represents the standard of treatment for renal and adrenal diseases, and its use is increasing even outside referral centres. Although most procedures are routinely performed, intraoperative complications do not occur, and the rate and predictive factors of these complications have not been established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and type of intraoperative complications and to identify predictive factors in patients undergoing laparoscopic renal and adrenal surgery. This was a cohort, multicentre, international retrospective study. Patients who underwent laparoscopic renal and adrenal surgeries between April 2017 and March 2022 were included in the study. Bivariate analysis was performed using contingency tables and the χ2 test for independent samples to compare qualitative variables and the T test and Mood test for continuous variables. Multivariate analysis was performed using a logistic regression model to obtain adjusted odds ratios. A total of 2374 patients were included in the study. Intraoperative complications were reported for 8.09% of patients who underwent renal surgery, with the most common complications reported being hollow viscus and vascular complications, and for 6.75% of patients who underwent adrenal surgery, with the most common complication reported being parenchymatous viscous complications. Multivariate analysis revealed that both adrenal and renal surgery radiological preoperative factors, such as invasive features during adrenalectomy and the RENAL score during nephrectomy, are predictive factors of intraoperative complications. In contrast to existing data, surgeon experience was not associated with a reduction in the incidence of perioperative complications.

Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy with Transperitoneal Approach for Large Renal Tumors: Standardized Surgical Technique and Outcomes

Background: Minimally invasive surgery is used only in selected cases of renal masses greater than 7 cm, and few studies exist in this setting. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a laparoscopic surgical approach for the treatment of large renal tumors using a standardized technique. Materials and Methods: Data of patients who underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) using the transperitoneal approach were retrospectively evaluated from December 2019 to September 2022. The study population was divided into two groups: patients with renal masses <7 cm (Group A) and those with renal masses ≥7 cm in diameter (Group B). The intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were compared. Results: Forty patients were enrolled (16 in Group A and 24 in Group B) in this study. Although significant difference in terms of age and American Society of Anesthesiologists score were detected, the two groups did not differ in mean operative time (130 minutes standard deviation [SD] ± 64 versus 148 minutes DS ± 56; P = .376), intraoperative complications (0% versus 8.3%; P = .508), need for postoperative transfusion (12% versus 12%; P > .999), and length of stay (3.38 DS ± 0.62 days versus 3.92 DS ± 2.47; P = .313). One patient had a local recurrence and died ∼13 months after surgery. Furthermore, 2 patients developed trocar-site incisional hernia in Group B. Conclusion: In this cohort of patients, LN for large renal tumors appeared to be safe and feasible. Larger mass dimension does not appear to influence the outcomes when the surgery is performed using a standardized technique by experienced surgeons.

Is Continuous Wound Infiltration a Better Option for Postoperative Pain Management after Open Nephrectomy Compared to Thoracic Epidural Analgesia?

BACKGROUND

Despite increasingly advanced minimally invasive percutaneous ablation techniques, surgery remains the only evidence-based therapy in curative intent for larger (>3-4 cm) renal tumors. Although minimally invasive surgery using (robotic-assisted) laparoscopic or retroperitoneoscopic approaches has gained popularity, open nephrectomy (ON) is still performed in 25% of cases, especially in tumors with central localization (partial ON) or large tumors with/without cava thrombus (total ON). As postoperative pain is one of the drawbacks of ON, our study aims to assess recovery and post-operative pain management using continuous wound infiltration (CWI) compared to thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA).

METHODS

Since 2012, all patients undergoing ON at our tertiary cancer center at CHUV have been included in our prospective ERAS^® (enhanced recovery after surgery) registry that is centrally stored in ERAS^® Interactive Audit System (EIAS) secured server. This study represents an analysis of all patients operated on with partial or total ON at our center between 2012 and 2022. An additional analysis was performed for the estimations of the total cost of CWI and TEA, based on the diagnosis-related group method.

RESULTS

92 patients were included and analyzed in this analysis (n = 64 (70%) with CWI; n = 28 (30%) with TEA). Adequate oral pain control was earlier achieved in the CWI group compared to the TEA group (median 3 vs. 4 days; p = 0.001), whereas immediate postoperative pain relief was better in the TEA group (p = 0.002). Consequently, opioid use was higher in the CWI group (p = 0.004). Still, reported nausea was lower in the CWI group (p = 0.002). Median time to bowel recovery was similar in both groups (p = 0.03). A shorter LOS (0.5 days) was observed in patients managed with CWI, although this was not statistically significant (p = 0.06). The use of CWI has reduced total hospital costs by nearly 40%.

CONCLUSIONS

TEA has better results in terms of postoperative pain management compared to CWI following ON. However, CWI is better tolerated, and causes less nausea and earlier recovery, which leads to a shorter length of stay. Given its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, CWI should be encouraged for ON.

Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy in the Current Era: Technical Difficulties, Troubleshoots, a Guide to the Apprentice, and the Current Learning Curve

Abhishek Pandey, MSObjectives  The main aim of this study is to present our experience with laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) and share practical solutions to various surgical challenges and the learning curve we realized. Materials and Methods  We retrospectively analyzed our LRN database for relevant demographic, clinical, imaging, operative, and postoperative data, including operative videos. We described various complications, vascular anomalies, intraoperative difficulties, and our improvisations to improve safety and outcomes. Statistical Analysis  We evaluated the learning curve, comparing the initial half cases (group 1) against the latter half (group 2), using the chi-squared test for categorical variables and Student's t -test for continuous variables. Results  Of the 106 patients included, LRN was successful in 95% ( n  = 101), and five cases converted to open surgical approach. The mean tumor size was 7.4 cm, 42% incidentally detected. The cumulative complication rate was 15%, including five main renal vein injuries. Intraoperative difficulties included ureter identification ( n  = 6), venous bleed during hilar dissection ( n  = 11), double renal arteries ( n  = 23), and venous anomalies ( n  = 20). Arterial anatomy had 95% concordance with the imaging findings. We describe various trade tricks to perform hilar dissection, identify and control anomalous vasculature, handle venous bleed, confirm arterial control, and improve decisions using imaging, technology, and guidance of a mentor. No statistically significant difference in the learning curve was observed between the study groups. Conclusion  With LRN already established as the current standard of care, our description intends to share the trade tricks and inspire novice urologists, who can assimilate training and reproduce good results under proper guidance. The steep learning curve described in the past may not be apparent in the current era of training and technological advancement.

SLC14A1 is a new biomarker in renal cancer

BACKGROUND

Renal cancer is one of the common malignant tumors of the urinary tract, prone to distant metastasis and drug resistance, with a poor clinical prognosis. SLC14A1 belongs to the solute transporter family, which plays a role in urinary concentration and urea nitrogen recycling in the renal, and is closely associated with the development of a variety of tumors.

METHODS

Transcription data for renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) were obtained from the public databases Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and we investigated the differences in SLC14A1 expression in cancerous and normal tissues of renal cancer, its correlation with the clinicopathological features of renal cancer patients. Then, we verified the expression levels of SLC14A1 in renal cancer tissues and their Paracancerous tissues using RT-PCR, Western-blotting and immunohistochemistry. Finally, we used renal endothelial cell line HEK-293 and renal cancer cell lines 786-O and ACHN to explore the effects of SLC14A1 on the biological behaviors of renal cancer cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis using EDU, MTT proliferation assay, Transwell invasion assay and scratch healing assay.

RESULTS

SLC14A1 was lowly expressed in renal cancer tissues and this was further validated by RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry in our clinical samples. Analysis of KIRC single-cell data suggested that SLC14A1 was mainly expressed in endothelial cells. Survival analysis showed that low levels of SLC14A1 expression were associated with a better clinical prognosis. In biological behavioral studies, we found that upregulation of SLC14A1 expression levels inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and metastatic ability of renal cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

SLC14A1 plays an important role in the progression of renal cancer and has the potential to become a new biomarker for renal cancer.

Oncologic and perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic versus open radical nephrectomy for the treatment of renal tumor (> 7 cm): a systematic review and pooled analysis of comparative outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Systematic evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) for renal tumor (>7 cm).

METHODS

The databases PubMed, Scopus, SinoMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were systematically searched for trials up to November 2022. The pooled results were evaluated by weighted mean difference (WMD), odds ratio (OR), and hazard ratio (HR).

RESULTS

This meta-analysis (18 trials) demonstrated that compared to open radical nephrectomy (ORN), LRN had a longer operative time (OT) (WMD=15.99, 95% CI: 6.74 to 25.24, p = 0.0007), lower estimated blood loss (EBL) (WMD = -237.07, 95% CI: -300.02 to -174.12, p < 0.00001), lower transfusion rates (OR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.55, p < 0.00001), and shorter length of stay (LOS) (WMD = -2.95, 95% CI: -3.86 to -2.03, p < 0.00001). No statistically relevant differences were found in overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.81 to 1.35, p = 0.76), cancer-specific survival (CSS) (HR = 1.28, 95% CI: 0.97 to 1.68, p = 0.08), progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 1.20, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.48, p = 0.1), recurrence-free survival (RFS) (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 0.89 to 1.81, p = 0.56), local recurrence rate (OR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.42 to 1.71, p = 0.65), and intraoperative and postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

For patients with renal tumors (> 7 cm), LRN has specific perioperative advantages over ORN (LOS, EBL, and transfusion rates). However, the OT was prolonged in the LRN group. In addition, no differences in complication or oncological outcomes (OS, CSS, PFS, RFS, and local recurrence rate) were reported.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022367114.

Comparison of 1-Year Health Care Expenditures and Utilization Following Minimally Invasive vs Open Nephrectomy

IMPORTANCE

Given the widespread adoption and clinical benefits of minimally invasive surgery approaches (MIS) in partial nephrectomy (PN) and radical nephrectomy (RN), assessment of long-term cost implications is relevant.

OBJECTIVE

To compare health care utilization and expenditures within 1 year after MIS and open surgery (OS).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cohort study was conducted using a US commercial claims database between 2013 and 2018. A total of 5104 patients aged 18 to 64 years who underwent PN or RN for kidney cancer and were continuously insured for 180 days before and 365 days after surgery were identified. An inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis was performed to examine differences in costs and use of health care services.

EXPOSURES

Surgical approach (MIS or OS).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Outcomes assessed included 1-year total health care expenditure, health care utilizations, and estimated days missed from work.

RESULTS

Of the 5104 patients, 2639 had PN (2008 MIS vs 631 OS) and 2465 had RN (1816 MIS vs 649 OS) and most were male (PN: 1657 [62.8%]; RN: 399 [63.1%]) and between 55 and 64 years of age (PN: 1034 [51.3%]; RN: 320 [55.7%]). Patients who underwent MIS had lower index hospital length of stay compared with OS (mean [95% CI] for PN: 2.45 [2.37-2.53] vs 3.78 [3.60-3.97] days; P < .001; for RN: 2.82 [2.73-2.91] vs 4.62 [4.41-4.83] days; P < .001), and lower index expenditure for RN ($28 999 [$28 243-$29 796] vs $31 977 [$30 729-$33 329]; P < .001). For PN, index expenditure was lower for OS than MIS (mean [95% CI], $27 480 [$26 263-$28 753] vs $30 380 [$29614-$31 167]; P < .001). Patients with MIS had lower 1-year postdischarge readmission rate (PN: 15.1% vs 21.5%; odds ratio [OR], 0.65; 95% CI, 0.52-0.82; P < .001; RN: 15.6% vs 18.9%; OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.63-1.00; P = .05), and fewer hospital outpatient visits (mean [95% CI] for PN: 4.69 [4.48-4.90] vs 5.25 [4.84-5.66]; P = .01; RN: 5.50 [5.21-5.80] vs 6.71 [6.12-7.30]; P < .001) than those with OS. For RN, MIS was associated with 1.47 fewer missed workdays (95% CI, 0.57-2.38 days; P = .001). The reduction in health care use in MIS was associated with lower or similar total cumulative expenditures compared with OS (mean difference [95% CI] for PN: $331 [-$3250 to $3912]; P = .85; for RN: -$11 265 [-$17 065 to -$5465]; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this cohort study, MIS was associated with lower or similar total cumulative expenditure than OS in the period 1 year after discharge from the index surgery. These findings suggest that downstream expenditures and resource utilization should be considered when evaluating surgical approach for nephrectomy.

The multispeciality approach to the management of localised kidney cancer

Historically, kidney cancer was approached in a siloed single-speciality way, with urological surgeons managing the localised stages of the disease and medical oncologists caring for patients if metastases developed. However, improvements in the management of localised kidney cancer have occurred rapidly over the past two decades with greater understanding of the disease biology, diagnostic options, and innovations in curative treatments. These developments are favourable for patients but provide a substantially more complex landscape for patients and clinicians to navigate, with associated challenging decisions about who to treat, how, and when. As such, the skill sets needed to manage the various aspects of the disease and guide patients appropriately outstrips the capabilities of one particular specialist, and the evolution of a multispeciality approach to the management of kidney cancer is now essential. In this Review, we summarise the current best multispeciality practice for the management of localised kidney cancer and the areas in need of further research and development.

Surgery for Xanthogranulomatous Pyelonephritis: A Comparison of Midline Transperitoneal and Flank Retroperitoneal Laparotomy Approaches to Nephrectomy

Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) is a rare inflammatory disease often associated with high morbidity and mortality. Whether the midline transperitoneal or the flank retroperitoneal approach is superior remains unknown. We searched through pathology databases and reviewed 86 patients with an XGP diagnosis from 2000 to 2021 at our institution. After the patients who did not meet the inclusion criteria were excluded, 35 patients who had undergone nephrectomy through the midline transperitoneal or the flank retroperitoneal laparotomy approach were recruited. Nine (25.71%) of the thirty-five patients underwent nephrectomy through a midline approach, whereas twenty-six (74.29%) received a flank approach. Patients in the midline approach group had a longer surgical time (p = 0.03) than those in the flank approach group. In addition, patients in the flank approach group took less time after surgery to resume oral intake than those in the midline approach group (p = 0.01). No significant differences in the rates of intraoperative and postoperative complications such as peritonitis or intraabdominal infection were observed between the groups. For the patients with XGP who are good candidates for surgery, nephrectomy is a relatively safe surgical treatment method. Both surgical methods produced favorable surgical outcomes, and the patients who received these methods had similar complication rates.

Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma: Indications and Long-term Outcome of a Cohort Study in Vietnam

OBJECTIVE: Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) has been suggested as the standard care for cancer patients in the T1-2 stage. However, whether this advanced technique is most indicated suitable for renal tumors higher than T3a and N1 is unclear, especially in different regions and countries, such as the difference between European and Asia. METHODS: From 2013 to 2021, the data of pathologically diagnosed renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients who received laparoscopic retroperitoneal radical nephrectomy was subjected to the present study. RESULTS: Overall, all the registered Vietnamese patients were eligible for the study. The average operative time was 86.8 ± 21.2 min and the percentage number of patients in stages 1, 2, and 3 were 134 (70.2%), 30 (15.7%), and 27 (14.1%), respectively. Patients in the 3rd stage had a significantly longer operative time than stages 1–2 (p = 0.0001). No Lymph-node dissection (LND) was recorded in 10 patients (5.2%), limited LND in 163 patients (85.3%), regional LND in 13 patients (6.8%), extended LND (eLND) in 5 patients (2.6%). eLND showed only prolongation of operative time (p = 0.000), however, did not increase intraoperative complications as well as prolonged the duration of analgesia and hospital stay when compared with the other 2 groups (p = 0.82, 0.85, 0.91). Mean follow-up time: 42.3 ± 24.7 months. The 5-year recurrent free survival and 5-year overall survival of the stage 1, 2, 3 were: 98.3%, 100%, 87.8%, and 98.9%, 100%, and 91.3%, respectively. (p = 0.0011, p = 0.0082). CONCLUSION: Retroperitoneal LRN could be an important technique in improving long-term oncological outcomes for Vietnamese patients, especially in the stage of T1-3N0-1M0 tumors. Radical retroperitoneal nephrectomy is safe and technically feasible as well as providing favorable long-term oncological outcomes for stage T1-2-3aN1M0 RCC.

Survival after minimally invasive vs. open radical nephrectomy for stage I and II renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

A recently reported phase III randomized trial comparing open and minimally invasive hysterectomy showed significantly higher rates of local recurrence after minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for cervical cancer. This raised concerns regarding patterns of recurrences and survival after MIS in general. This study aims to determine the effect of MIS on all-cause mortality among patients undergoing radical nephrectomy for Stage I and II renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

METHODS

We utilized the National Cancer Database to identify patients diagnosed with clinical stage I-II RCCs between 2010 and 2013. Patients for whom a laparoscopic or robotic radical nephrectomy was attempted were compared to patients who underwent open radical nephrectomy (ORN). Adjusted regression models with inverse probability propensity score weighting (IPW) were utilized to identify independent predictors of receiving MIS. All-cause mortality rates were compared using IPW survival functions and log-rank tests. Adjusted Cox proportional hazard models were fitted to determine independent predictors of OS.

RESULTS

27,642 patients were identified; 11,524 (41.7%) had MIS, while 16,118 (58.3%) had ORN. Kaplan-Meier survival curves in the IPW cohort showed significant OS advantage for patients who underwent MIS (p < 0.001). Furthermore, length of hospital stays (3 vs. 4 days), 30 day readmission rates (2.4 vs. 2.87%), 30 day (0.53 vs. 0.96%) and 90 day mortality rates (1.04 vs. 1.77%) were significantly higher in the ORN group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

MIS was associated with better OS outcomes compared to ORN for stage I and II RCC. In addition, MIS had lower post-operative readmission, 30- and 90 day mortality rates.

New techniques of regional anaesthesia for renal laparoscopic surgeries

Renal procedures are performed within the realm of urology, general and transplant surgery. The implementation of new operating techniques imposes on anaesthetists the need to adapt their methods, aiming to improve the patient's perioperative comfort and safety. Laparoscopy is gaining increasing interest as a less invasive procedure; however clinical research shows that pain after the procedure is underestimated and therefore poorly controlled. Multimodal analgesia is very promising, though, as it allows better pain control, expedites discharge and enhances recovery. This is achieved through a combination of general and regional anaesthesia with administration of adjuvant drugs intraoperatively, resulting in reduced opioid requirements in the recovery room with diminished side effects of pain treatment. Good communication between the surgeon and the anaesthetist is the key to effective anaesthesia and analgesia.

Influential Factors and Personalized Prediction Model of Acute Pain Trajectories after Surgery for Renal Cell Carcinoma

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common neoplasm in kidneys, and surgical resection remains the mainstay treatment. Few studies have investigated how the postoperative pain changes over time and what has affected its trajectory. This study aimed to characterize the variations in postoperative pain over time and investigate associated factors after RCC surgery. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in a single medical center in Taiwan, where maximal pain scores in a numeric rating scale were recorded daily in the first five postoperative days (PODs) after RCC surgery. Latent curve models were developed, using two latent variables, intercept and slope, which represented the baseline pain and rate of pain resolution. These models explain the variations in postoperative pain scores over time. A predictive model for postoperative pain trajectories was also constructed. Results: There were 861 patients with 3850 pain observations included in the analysis. Latent curve analysis identified that female patients and those with advanced cancer (stage III and IV) tended to have increased baseline pain scores (p = 0.028 and 0.012, respectively). Furthermore, patients over 60 years, without PCA use (both p < 0.001), and with more surgical blood loss (p = 0.001) tended to have slower pain resolution. The final predictive model fit the collected data acceptably (RMSEA = 0.06, CFI = 0.95). Conclusion: Latent curve analysis identified influential factors of acute pain trajectories after RCC surgery. This study may also help elucidate the complex relationships between the variations in pain intensity over time and their determinants, and guide personalized pain management after surgery for RCC.

Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy

In addition to its established advantages, laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (RN) poses a unique set of challenges over traditional open surgery. In this study, we discuss preoperative considerations and detailed steps for laparoscopic RN. We review the transabdominal approach in detail, including patient positioning, equipment, and port placement in addition to the surgical steps. Intraoperative decisions such as adrenal management, renal preservation, and tumor identification are reviewed. Common complications of laparoscopic renal surgery are also summarized.

Comparison of Perioperative Outcomes for Radical Nephrectomy Based on Surgical Approach for Masses Greater than 10cm

Introduction and Objective Robotic-assisted radical nephrectomy (RRN) is increasingly utilized as an alternative to laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) but there are concerns over costs and objective benefit. In the setting of very large renal masses (>10 cm), comparison between techniques is limited and it is unclear whether a robotic approach confers any perioperative benefit over LRN or open radical nephrectomy (ORN). In this study, perioperative outcomes of RRN, LRN, and ORN for very large renal masses are compared. Methods Using the National Cancer Database, patients were identified who underwent radical nephrectomy for kidney tumors >10 cm diagnosed from 2010-2015. Patients were analyzed according to surgical approach. Perioperative outcomes, including conversion to open, length of stay, readmission rates, positive surgical margins, and 30 and 90-day mortality were compared among cohorts. Results A total of 9288 patients met inclusion criteria (RRN = 842, LRN = 2326, ORN = 6120). Compared to ORN, recipients of RRN or LRN had similar rates of 30-day readmission and 30- and 90-day mortality. Length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in RRN (-1.73 days ±0.19; p<0.0001) and LRN (-1.40 days ±0.12; p<0.0001) compared to ORN. LRN had a higher rate of conversion to open compared to RRN (OR 1.48; 95% CI 1.10-1.98; p=0.0087). Conversion to open from RRN or LRN added 1.3 additional days of inpatient stay. Over the study period, RRN use increased from 4.1% to 14.8%, LRN from 20.9% to 25.6%, while ORN use decreased from 75% to 59.6%. Conclusions Minimally invasive approaches are increasingly utilized in very large renal masses. RRN has lower rates of conversion to open but produces comparable perioperative outcomes to LRN. Minimally invasive approaches have a shorter length of inpatient stay but otherwise report similar surgical margin status, readmission rates, and mortality rates compared to open radical nephrectomy.

Minimally invasive radical nephrectomy: a contemporary review

Minimally invasive renal surgery has revolutionized the surgical management of renal cancer since the initial report of laparoscopic nephrectomy in 1991. Laparoscopic nephrectomy became the mainstay of management in surgically resectable renal masses since the 1990s. The growing body of literature supporting nephron-sparing surgery over the last two decades has meant that minimally invasive radical nephrectomy (MI-RN) is now the preferred treatment for renal tumors not amenable to partial nephrectomy. While there is a well-described experience with complex radical nephrectomy using standard laparoscopy, robot-assisted surgery has shortened the learning curve and facilitated greater uptake of minimally invasive surgery in difficult surgical scenarios traditionally performed open surgically. Increased experience and expertise with robot-assisted renal surgery has led to expansion of the indications for MI-RN to include larger masses, locally advanced renal masses invading adjacent tissues or regional hilar/retroperitoneal lymph nodes, cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) in metastatic disease, and concurrent venous tumor thrombectomy for renal vein or inferior vena cava (IVC) involvement. In this article, we review the various surgical techniques and adjunctive procedures associated with MI-RN.

The role of open radical nephrectomy in contemporary management of renal cell carcinoma

Radical nephrectomy (RN) remains a cornerstone of the management of localised renal cell carcinoma (RCC). RN involves the en bloc removal of the kidney along with perinephric fat enclosed within Gerota's fascia. Key principles of open RN include appropriate incision for adequate exposure, dissection and visualisation of the renal hilum, and early ligation of the renal artery and subsequently renal vein. Regional lymph node dissection (LND) facilitates local staging but its therapeutic role remains controversial. LND is recommended in patients with high risk clinically localised disease, but its benefit in low risk node-negative and clinically node-positive patients is unclear. Concomitant adrenalectomy should be reserved for patients with large tumours with radiographic evidence of adrenal involvement. Despite a recent downtrend in utilisation of open RN due to nephron-sparing and minimally invasive alternatives, there remains a vital role for open RN in the management of RCC in three domains. Firstly, open RN is important to the management of large, complex tumours which would be at high risk of complications if treated with partial nephrectomy (PN). Secondly, open RN plays a crucial role in cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) for metastatic RCC, in which the laparoscopic approach achieves similar results but is associated with a high reoperation rate. Finally, open RN is the current standard of care in the management of inferior vena caval (IVC) tumour thrombus. Management of tumour thrombus requires a multidisciplinary approach and varies with cranial extent of thrombus. Higher level thrombus may require hepatic mobilisation and circulatory support, whilst the presence of bland thrombus may warrant post-operative filter insertion or ligation of the IVC.

Patient-Reported Quality of Life and Convalescence After Minimally Invasive Kidney Cancer Surgery

OBJECTIVE

To better characterize recovery after minimally invasive kidney surgery, we present a study describing patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following minimally invasive radical nephrectomy (RN) and partial nephrectomy (PN).

METHODS

Patients who underwent minimally invasive PN or RN for renal cancer were invited to enroll in a prospective, patient-reported HRQOL study using the Convalescence and Recovery Evaluation (CARE) instrument and Short Form-12. Patients completed questionnaires at baseline, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after surgery. Mixed repeated measures model were used to assess time effect on HRQOL scores and predictors of scores within each surgery groups.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy-seven patients were included in the study: 50 had RN and 127 had PN. At 2 weeks, both groups had significant decreases in Overall CARE, as well as the Pain, Gastrointestinal, and Activity domain scores which remained slightly below baseline at 4 weeks. At 4 weeks only 50% of patients in both the RN and PN cohorts returned to baseline overall CARE score. By 12 weeks 82% returned to baseline overall CARE score in the RN group while 76% of patients did so in the PN group.

CONCLUSION

Convalescence after minimally invasive renal surgery can often extend beyond 4 weeks post-treatment in PN and RN subjects. This information may be used to provide more accurate preoperative counseling in an attempt to improve overall patient satisfaction.

Role of the three-dimensional printing technology incomplex laparoscopic renal surgery: a renal tumor in a horseshoe kidney

Purpose:

To report our initial experience using a patient-specific 3D-printed renal tumor model for the surgical planning of a complex heminephrectomy in a horseshoe kidney.

Materials and Methods:

We selected a clinical case for a complex laparoscopic surgery consisting in a 53 year-old male presenting a local recurrence of a renal tumor in a horseshoe kidney with aberrant vascularisation previously treated with a laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. He is now proposed for a laparoscopic left heminephrectomy. Along with conventional imaging, a real-size 3D-printed renal model was used to plan de surgical approach. The perioperative experience of the surgical team was recorded.

Results:

The surgical team found the patient-specific 3D printed model useful for a better understanding of the anatomy and an easier surgical planning.

Conclusion:

The use of patient-specific 3D-printed renal models seem to be helpful for the surgical planning in complex renal tumors.

Laparoendoscopic single-site nephrectomy versus conventional laparoendoscopic nephrectomy for kidney tumor: a systematic review and meta-analysis

With the increasing application of laparoendoscopic single-site nephrectomy (LESS-N) in kidney tumor, accumulating studies compared it with conventional laparoendoscopic nephrectomy (CL-N). However, controversial outcomes were reported. Hence, this meta-analysis was carried out to clarify these issues. Online databases PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were searched comprehensively for eligible studies published before 24 July 2018. Odds ratios (ORs) or standardized mean differences (SMDs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were collected for evaluating the pooled results of relevant outcomes. Ultimately, 13 eligible articles were enrolled. Meanwhile, compared with CL-N, LESS-N was related to a longer operation time (SMD: 0.40; 95% CI, 0.23–0.58; P=0.000), a shorter length of hospital stay (LOS) (SMD: −0.32; 95% CI, −0.62 to −0.02; P=0.034), a lower visual analog scale (VAS) score (SMD: −0.89; 95% CI, −1.22 to −0.56; P=0.000) and a lower analgesic requirement (SMD: −0.55; 95% CI, −0.87 to −0.23; P=0.001). There was no statistical difference in the postoperative day of oral intake, estimated blood loss (EBL), conversion rate, perioperative complications, intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, minor complications and major complications between LESS-N and CL-N. Patients with LESS-N for kidney tumor could have a longer operation time and shorter LOS, and meanwhile could need less analgesics and suffer less pain after LESS-N.

Management of kidney cancer patients: 2018 guidelines of the Italian Medical Oncology Association (AIOM)

In the past two decades, the treatment landscape for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma has significantly changed thanks to the approval of several targeted molecular therapies (VEGF and mTOR inhibitors) and recently immune-checkpoint inhibitors. The Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM) Renal Cell Cancer (RCC) Guidelines Panel has developed clinical guidelines to provide evidence-based information and recommendations to oncologists, urologists and all professionals involved in the management of patients with renal cell cancer.

Comparison of Laparoscopy and Open Radical Nephrectomy of Renal Cell Cancer

Objective

The aim of this study was to summarize the current evidence to evaluate the effects of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) and open radical nephrectomy (ORN) in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar to identify all relevant studies. 8 published studies were included in this meta-analysis. We pooled the odds ratios (OR), standardised mean difference (SMD) and conducted heterogeneity, and quality assessment.

Results

The outcome of treatment effects included surgical blood loss, surgical time, postoperative complications, and post-operative length of hospital stay. Comparing open radical nephrectomy for kidney cancer patients, the pooled SMD of surgical time was 0.47, (95% confidential index CI = [0.09, 0.85]), the pooled SMD of operative blood loss was -68.98, (95% CI = [-99.63, -38.34]), the pooled SMD of post-operative length of hospital stay was -4.32, (95% CI = [-4.62, -4.03]), and the pooled OR of postoperative complications was 0.52, (95% CI = [0.30, 0.91]).

Conclusion

LRN was found to significantly decrease patients’ blood loss. In addition, LRN offers less post-operative length of hospital stay.

Prospective analysis of laparoscopic versus open radical nephrectomy for renal tumours more than 7 cm

Aims:

To analyse the feasibility of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) for renal tumours >7 cm and to compare the operative and oncologic outcomes with open radical nephrectomy (ORN).

Settings and Design:

This was a prospective, observational, comparative study.

Subjects and Methods:

The study was conducted at a tertiary care super-speciality hospital. All the patients who underwent radical nephrectomy for >7 cm renal tumours during a period of 2 years (April 2012 to May 2014) were included in the study. Thirty patients were included in each ORN and LRN group. Pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative data for all these patients were collected and analysed.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 11.0 for Windows, Chicago, IL).

Results:

Mean age of patients in ORN and LRN groups was 57.3 ± 6.1 years and 54.9 ± 5.7 years, respectively (P = 0.220). As compared to ORN, LRN had less drop in post-operative haemoglobin (1.39 ± 0.55 g/dl vs. 4.07 ± 1.023 g/dl, P < 0.05), less drop in haematocrit value (4.7 ± 3.25% vs. 9.5 ± 5.13%, P < 0.05), less analgesic requirement for tramadol hydrochloride (165 ± 74.5 mg vs. 260 ± 181.66 mg) and less mean hospital stay (4.2 days vs. 6.1 days, P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in post-operative complication rate and recurrence-free survival over a median follow-up of 17 months (93.9% – LRN vs. 90% – ORN)

Conclusions:

LRN for large renal tumours is feasible and achieves oncologic outcomes similar to that obtained with ORN.

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.

Saudi Oncology Society and Saudi Urology Association combined clinical management guidelines for renal cell carcinoma 2017

In this report, we update the previously published Saudi guidelines for the evaluation and medical and surgical management of renal cell carcinoma. It is categorized according to the stage of the disease using the tumor node metastasis staging system 7th edition. The recommendations are presented with supporting evidence level.

Saudi Oncology Society and Saudi Urology Association combined clinical management guidelines for renal cell carcinoma 2017

In this report, we update the previously published Saudi guidelines for the evaluation and medical and surgical management of renal cell carcinoma. It is categorized according to the stage of the disease using the tumor node metastasis staging system 7^th edition. The recommendations are presented with supporting evidence level.

A Multicentered, Propensity Matched Analysis Comparing Laparoscopic and Open Surgery for pT3a Renal Cell Carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

To compare outcomes following laparoscopic renal surgery (LRS) and open renal surgery (ORS) in the treatment of pathologic T3a (pT3a) renal cell carcinoma (RCC) using a propensity matched analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Canadian Kidney Cancer Information System is a prospectively maintained database for patients diagnosed with RCC from 15 Canadian institutions. Patients treated for nonmetastatic pT3a RCC between 2008 and 2015 were included. Propensity score matching for age, gender, tumor size, grade, histology, and surgical approach was performed to compare laparoscopic radical and partial nephrectomy (LRN or LPN) with open radical or partial nephrectomy (ORN or OPN). The primary endpoint was recurrence-free survival (RFS).

RESULTS

Two hundred twenty-six (45%) patients underwent LRS (88% LRN and 12% LPN), and 275 (55%) underwent ORS (75% ORN and 25% OPN). After a median follow-up of 21.1 months, 155 (72 LRS and 83 ORS) patients experienced recurrence. The 3-year RFS was 63% and 50% for the LRS and ORS groups, respectively, p = 0.36. On subgroup analysis, there was no significant difference in RFS among patients who underwent radical nephrectomy (3-year RFS 61% in LRN compared with 46% in ORN group, p = 0.32) or partial nephrectomy (77% in LPN compared with 79% in OPN group, p = 0.82).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the largest matched analysis comparing LRS and ORS for pT3a RCC. In matched patients, LRS showed no difference in oncologic outcomes compared with ORS and should be considered when technically feasible.

Laparoscopic renal surgery is here to stay

Objectives

To review the current literature comparing the outcomes of renal surgery via open, laparoscopic and robotic approaches.

Materials and methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed on PubMed, MEDLINE and Ovid, to look for studies comparing outcomes of renal surgery via open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches.

Results

Limited good-quality evidence suggests that all three approaches result in largely comparable functional and oncological outcomes. Both laparoscopic and robotic approaches result in less blood loss, analgesia requirement, with a shorter hospital stay and recovery time, with similar complication rates when compared with the open approach. Robotic renal surgeries have not shown any significant clinical benefit over a laparoscopic approach, whilst the associated cost is significantly higher.

Conclusion

With the high cost and lack of overt clinical benefit of the robotic approach, laparoscopic renal surgery will likely continue to remain relevant in treating various urological pathologies.

Comparisons of oncological outcomes and perioperative complications between laparoscopic and open radical nephrectomies in patients with clinical T2 renal cell carcinoma (≥7cm)

Purpose

Although minimal invasive techniques have been widely accepted in contemporary urology, the perioperative outcomes of laparoscopy in patients with clinical T2 renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have not been clearly evaluated. We aimed to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) with those of open radical nephrectomy (ORN) in patients with clinical T2 RCC.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 835 patients who underwent radical nephrectomy for localized clinical T2 RCC (≥7 cm). The survival rates and postoperative complications were compared between the LRN and ORN groups. Multivariate Cox regression tests were performed to identify the independent predictors of each survival outcome.

Results

There were 578 (69.2%) subjects in ORN group and 257 (30.8%) in LRN group, respectively. The LRN group showed a significant male predominance (p = 0.013), higher pathological stage (p = 0.02), and higher cellular grade (p = 0.010) compared with the ORN group. No significant differences in progression-free (p = 0.070), cancer-specific (p = 0.472), or overall survival (p = 0.249) were found between the two groups. In the multivariate analysis, the type of surgery did not show any significant associations with all three survival outcomes (all p > 0.2). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in postoperative complication rate between the two groups (p = 0.595). In the subgroup analysis according to tumor histology, no significant relationships were observed between survival outcome and surgery type.

Conclusion

The LRN and ORN groups showed similar oncological outcomes in patients with clinical T2 RCC. Early postoperative complications were also comparable between LRN and ORN.

Utility of anteroposterior diameter ratio of tumor and abdomen for laparoscopic approach for radical nephrectomy in large renal masses

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) is now increasingly done for tumors larger than 10 cm. Despite selection of favorable cases, LRN may not be successful due to lack of adequate working space with large tumors. We describe a new feature on Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) abdomen to predict feasibility of LRN for large renal masses between 10 and 15 cm.

METHODS

From January 2005 to December 2015, renal tumors between 10 and 15 cm were selected retrospectively for LRN. Patients with retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy, Inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombus and involvement of adjacent organs were excluded. Anteroposterior (AP) diameter ratio of renal tumor and abdomen (APROTA) was calculated by dividing the maximum AP diameter of tumor along with normal renal parenchyma, by the AP diameter of abdomen on CECT. The patients were stratified into two groups: Group A (successful LRN) and Group B (conversion to open surgery) and outcomes were compared. The reasons for conversion were also noted.

RESULTS

Of 29 patients, 16 (55.2%) had successful LRN (Group A), while 13 (44.8%) had conversion to open surgery (group B). The median tumor size in Group A was 11.3 ± 1.8 cm and in Group B was 13.6 ± 1.26 cm. Eleven of 13 patients had conversion due to large tumor size causing failure to progress. Two conversions were due to bleeding and injury to the colon each. There was a significant difference in the APROTA in group A and B [0.43 ± 0.09 in group A and 0.64 ± 0.14 in group B (p = 0.0001)].

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with APROTA of more than 0.65 are unlikely to have successful outcome with LRN.

Laparoscopic Versus Open Radical Nephrectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to summarize and quantify the current evidence on the therapeutic efficacy of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) compared with open radical nephrectomy (ORN) in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in a meta-analysis.

METHODS

Data were collected by searching Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect for reports published up to September 26, 2016. Studies that reported data on comparisons of therapeutic efficacy of LRN and ORN were included. The fixed-effects model was used in this meta-analysis if there was no evidence of heterogeneity; otherwise, the random-effects model was used.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven articles were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed that the overall mortality was significantly lower in the LRN group than that in the ORN group (odds ratio [OR] =0.77, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.62-0.95). However, there was no statistically significant difference in cancer-specific mortality (OR=0.77, 95% CI: 0.55-1.07), local tumor recurrence (OR=0.86, 95% CI: 0.65-1.14), and intraoperative complications (OR=1.27, 95% CI: 0.83-1.94). The risk of postoperative complications was significantly lower in the LRN group (OR=0.71, 95% CI: 0.65-0.78). In addition, LRN has been shown to offer superior perioperative results to ORN, including shorter hospital stay days, time to start oral intake, and convalescence time, and less estimated blood loss, blood transfusion rate, and anesthetic consumption.

CONCLUSION

LRN was associated with better surgical outcomes as assessed by overall mortality and postoperative complications compared with ORN. LRN has also been shown to offer superior perioperative results to ORN.

Partial nephrectomy versus radical nephrectomy for clinical localised renal masses

BACKGROUND

Partial nephrectomy and radical nephrectomy are the relevant surgical therapy options for localised renal cell carcinoma. However, debate regarding the effects of these surgical approaches continues and it is important to identify and summarise high-quality studies to make surgical treatment recommendations.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of partial nephrectomy compared with radical nephrectomy for clinically localised renal cell carcinoma.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, BIOSIS, LILACS, Scopus, two trial registries and abstracts from three major conferences to 24 February 2017, together with reference lists; and contacted selected experts in the field.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included a randomised controlled trial comparing partial and radical nephrectomy for participants with small renal masses.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

One review author screened all of the titles and abstracts; only citations that were clearly irrelevant were excluded at this stage. Next, two review authors independently assessed full-text reports, identified relevant studies, evaluated the eligibility of the studies for inclusion, assessed trial quality and extracted data. The update of the literature search was performed by two independent review authors. We used Review Manager 5 for data synthesis and data analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified one randomised controlled trial including 541 participants that compared partial nephrectomy to radical nephrectomy. The median follow-up was 9.3 years.Based on low quality evidence, we found that time-to-death of any cause was decreased using partial nephrectomy (HR 1.50, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.18). This corresponds to 79 more deaths (5 more to 173 more) per 1000. Also based on low quality evidence, we found no difference in serious adverse events (RR 2.04, 95% CI 0.19 to 22.34). Findings are consistent with 4 more surgery-related deaths (3 fewer to 78 more) per 1000.Based on low quality evidence, we found no difference in time-to-recurrence (HR 1.37, 95% CI 0.58 to 3.24). This corresponds to 12 more recurrences (14 fewer to 70 more) per 1000. Due to the nature of reporting, we were unable to analyse overall rates for immediate and long-term adverse events. We found no evidence on haemodialysis or quality of life.Reasons for downgrading related to study limitations (lack of blinding, cross-over), imprecision and indirectness (a substantial proportion of patients were ultimately found not to have a malignant tumour). Based on the finding of a single trial, we were unable to conduct any subgroup or sensitivity analyses.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Partial nephrectomy may be associated with a decreased time-to-death of any cause. With regards to surgery-related mortality, cancer-specific survival and time-to-recurrence, partial nephrectomy appears to result in little to no difference.

Minimally invasive vs open nephrectomy in the modern era: does approach matter?

PURPOSE

To evaluate if the widespread adoption of a minimally invasive approach to radical nephrectomy has affected short- and long-term patient outcomes in the modern era.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent radical nephrectomy from 2001 to 2012 was conducted using the US National Cancer Institute Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) Program and Medicare insurance program database. Patients who underwent open surgery were compared to those who underwent minimally invasive surgery using propensity score matching.

RESULTS

10,739 (85.9%) underwent open surgery and 1776 (14.1%) underwent minimally invasive surgery. Minimally invasive surgery increased from 18.4% from 2001-2004 to 43.5% from 2009 to 2012. After median follow-up of 57.1 months, minimally invasive radical nephrectomy conferred long-term oncologic efficacy in terms of overall (HR 0.84; 95% CI 0.75-0.95) survival and cancer-specific (HR 0.68; 95% CI 0.54-0.86) survival compared to open radical nephrectomy. Minimally invasive surgery was associated with lower risk of inpatient death [risk ratio (RR) 0.45 with 95% CI: (0.20-0.99), p = 0.04], deep vein thrombosis [RR: 0.35 (0.18-0.69), p = 0.002], respiratory complications [RR: 0.73 (0.60-0.89), p = 0.001], infectious complications [RR: 0.35 (0.14-0.90), p = 0.02], acute kidney injury [RR: 0.66 (0.52-0.84), p < 0.001], sepsis [RR: 0.55 (0.31-0.98), p = 0.04], prolonged length of stay (18.6 vs 30.0%, p < 0.001), and ICU admission (19.7 vs 26.3%, p < 0.001). Costs were similar between the two approaches (30-day costs $15,882 vs $15,564; p = 0.70).

CONCLUSION

After widespread adoption of minimally invasive approaches to radical nephrectomy across the United States, oncologic standards remain preserved with improved perioperative outcomes at no additional cost burden.

Open surgery versus retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy for renal tuberculosis: a retrospective study of 120 patients

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic renal surgery has been widely used in the treatment of renal diseases. However, there is still little research about its application in addressing renal tuberculosis. The purpose of this study is to retrospectively investigate the surgical results of laparoscopic and open surgery for nonfunctional tuberculous kidneys.

METHODS

Between May 2011 and June 2016, 120 nephrectomies were performed in patients with a nonfunctional tuberculous kidney. Of these, 69 patients underwent retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy, and 51 patients underwent open nephrectomy. Data about the patients' characteristics and surgical outcomes were collected from their electronic medical records. Outcomes were compared between these two groups.

RESULTS

Our results showed that a number of renal tuberculosis patients presented no significant symptoms during their disease. Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) were the most common at a rate of 73/120, followed by flank pain or accidently discovery (66/120), urine abnormality (30/120) and fever (27/120). Patients who underwent open surgery were similar to laparoscopic patients with regard to sex, BMI, location, previous tuberculous history, grade, anemia, adhesion, hypertension, diabetes and preoperative serum creatinine level, but were generally older than laparoscopic patients. There were no significant differences between open and laparoscopic surgery in estimated blood loss, transfusion, postoperative hospital days and perioperative complication rate. However, the median operation time of laparoscopic operation was much longer than open surgery (180 [150-225] vs 135 [120-165] minutes, P < 0.01). Seven of the 69 laparoscopic operations were converted to open surgery because of severe adhesions.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic nephrectomy is as an effective treatment as open surgery for a nonfunctional tuberculous kidney, although it requires more time during the surgical procedure. No significant differences in other surgical outcomes were observed.