Three-Dimensional Physical Model-Assisted Planning and Navigation for Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy in Patients...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Completely endophytic renal tumors pose surgical challenges, particularly during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN), due to limited visual cues.
• Three-dimensional (3D) kidney models have previously shown utility in visualizing renal tumor characteristics and spatial relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of patient-specific 3D kidney models for planning and intraoperative navigation during LPN for endophytic renal tumors.
• To assess the feasibility and clinical outcomes associated with using 3D models in this surgical context.

Main Methods:

• Construction of patient-specific 3D kidney models for five cases of endophytic renal tumors.
• Utilizing distinct colorants to differentiate renal masses from surrounding healthy parenchyma on the 3D models.
• Application of 3D models for both preoperative planning and intraoperative navigation during LPN.

Main Results:

• Successful construction and application of 3D kidney models in five LPN cases for endophytic renal tumors.
• All patients demonstrated acceptable perioperative outcomes with no serious complications.
• Postoperative questionnaire results and clinical outcomes supported the reliability of 3D kidney models.

Conclusions:

• This study presents the first report on the use of 3D kidney models for LPN in patients with completely endophytic renal tumors.
• 3D kidney models are a reliable tool that can enhance surgeons' understanding of tumor characteristics and aid in planning and performing LPN for challenging endophytic lesions.