Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 5, 2026

Robot-assisted Partial Splenectomy
Published on: January 2, 2026
Intraoperative mannitol during robotic-assisted-laparoscopic partial nephrectomy
Kellen Choi1, Sharon Hill2, Nathan Hale2
1Urology (Adult Office) at UofL Physicians Outpatient Center, University of Louisville, 401 E. Chestnut St., Suite 480, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
Abstract:
Mannitol is routinely used during partial nephrectomies due to its renoprotective properties. With minimally invasive techniques, the need for mannitol has been questioned. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RALPN) has been shown to decrease warm ischemia time, which may potentially minimize the benefit of mannitol. To date, no prospective, randomized, controlled trials have investigated the use of mannitol in only robotic procedures. We hypothesize that the intraoperative mannitol use during RALPN provides no statistically significant benefit for post-operative renal function outcomes. We conducted a randomized, controlled, double-blinded, single surgeon, prospective study to assess renal function after RALPN. Patients were randomized into a control group with intravenous normal saline infusion prior to clamping of the vessels or to an experimental group with an infusion of mannitol. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were obtained prior to the surgery as well as post operatively at 24 h, 1 week, and 30 days. Preoperative eGFR showed no statistical differences between the groups and evaluation of median percent change in eGFR after surgery did not indicate a statistical difference between the groups after RALPN. After prospective analysis of the change in post-operative renal function of randomized groups who received 12 g of mannitol following RALPN, we determined that infusion of mannitol does not provide significant improvement of maintenance of renal functions after RALPN. Based on our results, we recommend discontinuing routine use of mannitol during RALPN.
Insights
Intraoperative mannitol offers no significant benefit for kidney function after robotic partial nephrectomy. This study recommends discontinuing its routine use in these procedures to optimize patient care.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Mannitol is traditionally used for renoprotection during partial nephrectomies.
- Minimally invasive techniques, like robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RALPN), may alter the necessity of mannitol.
- Reduced warm ischemia time in RALPN might diminish mannitol's protective effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of intraoperative mannitol in preserving renal function after RALPN.
- To determine if mannitol provides a statistically significant benefit for post-operative renal function outcomes in RALPN.
- To challenge the routine use of mannitol in robotic partial nephrectomy procedures.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, controlled study was conducted.
- Patients undergoing RALPN were randomized to receive either mannitol or normal saline.
- Renal function was assessed by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) preoperatively and at 24 hours, 1 week, and 30 days postoperatively.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences in preoperative eGFR were observed between the mannitol and saline groups.
- The median percent change in eGFR after surgery showed no statistical difference between the groups.
- Intraoperative mannitol infusion did not significantly improve or maintain renal function post-RALPN.
Conclusions:
- Routine intraoperative mannitol administration does not provide significant renal function benefits following robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.
- The findings suggest that mannitol can be discontinued in RALPN procedures.
- This study provides evidence to guide practice changes in perioperative care for RALPN.
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