Renal Function Preservation in Purely Off-Clamp Sutureless Robotic Partial Nephrectomy: Initial Experience and

Antonio Franco1, Sara Riolo1, Giorgia Tema1

  • 1Department of Urology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, La Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy.

PubMed

Insights

Sutureless off-clamp robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (sl-oc RAPN) is a safe and effective procedure for kidney tumors. This technique shows minimal impact on overall kidney function, preserving oncological outcomes with few complications.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Surgical Oncology
  • Nephrology

Background:

  • Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is a standard treatment for renal masses.
  • Sutureless off-clamp techniques aim to improve outcomes and reduce complications.
  • Evaluating the impact of sutureless off-clamp RAPN (sl-oc RAPN) on renal function is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the effectiveness and safety of sl-oc RAPN.
  • To specifically evaluate the impact of sl-oc RAPN on renal function.
  • To analyze oncological outcomes and perioperative complications.

Main Methods:

  • A multicenter study involving 21 patients with renal masses (>2 cm, PADUA score ≤6).
  • Patients underwent sl-oc RAPN.
  • Renal function was assessed preoperatively and at 1 and 3 months post-surgery using creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and sequential renal scintigraphy.

Main Results:

  • The median patient age was 64 years, with a median tumor diameter of 40 mm.
  • Operative time averaged 90 minutes, with estimated blood loss of 150 mL.
  • A statistically significant median decrease in renal function of 10 mL/min was observed (p < 0.01), with renal scintigraphy showing a median decrease of 12% in the operated kidney.

Conclusions:

  • Sutureless off-clamp robot-assisted partial nephrectomy is a safe procedure.
  • The technique demonstrates a minimal impact on renal function alteration.
  • sl-oc RAPN effectively preserves renal function and achieves optimal oncological outcomes with limited complications.