Effect of body mass index on perioperative outcomes for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy

Obesity is becoming an increasing problem and is associated with increased incidence of renal-cell carcinoma. We sought to assess the impact of obesity on outcomes of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for renal masses.

We retrospectively reviewed the pathologic and clinical outcomes from January 2004 through August 2010 of consecutive partial nephrectomies that were performed at a single institution. Patients were segregated according to preoperative body mass index (BMI), and outcomes were compared.

Seventy-eight nonobese (BMI<30), 24 obese (BMI 30-35), and 24 morbidly obese (BMI>35) patients were identified. Obese patients were significantly more likely to be female (66% >35 vs 32% <30). Other baseline characteristics were similar. There was a significant relationship between estimated blood loss (P=0.03) and increasing BMI when compared as a trend. No significant differences were observed in regard to operative time, transfusion rate, complications, or surgical margin status between groups.

Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy can be safely performed in obese patients without significant expected difference in outcomes.