Minimally invasive radical nephrectomy: a contemporary review

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Minimally invasive renal surgery, particularly laparoscopic nephrectomy, has been standard for renal masses since the 1990s.
• Nephron-sparing surgery advancements have positioned minimally invasive radical nephrectomy (MI-RN) as the preferred approach for tumors unsuitable for partial nephrectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review surgical techniques and adjunctive procedures for minimally invasive radical nephrectomy (MI-RN).

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on minimally invasive radical nephrectomy (MI-RN).
• Discussion of robot-assisted surgery's role in expanding MI-RN indications.
• Exploration of techniques for complex scenarios like advanced masses and venous involvement.

Main Results:

• Robot-assisted surgery has reduced the learning curve for minimally invasive surgery in complex renal cancer cases.
• Indications for MI-RN have expanded to include larger masses, locally advanced disease, cytoreductive nephrectomy, and tumor thrombectomy.

Conclusions:

• Minimally invasive radical nephrectomy (MI-RN), especially robot-assisted, is increasingly vital for managing complex renal tumors.
• Technological advancements continue to broaden the application of MI-RN in renal cancer treatment.