Intraindividual Perception of Open versus Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy (PERCEPTION Trial): An Important...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Oncology
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Previous trials showed no clear advantage of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) over open partial nephrectomy (OPN).
• Clinical observations suggested potential patient benefits with RAPN.
• This study focused on intraindividual patient perceptions of both surgical approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare patient experiences and perceptions of open partial nephrectomy (OPN) versus robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN).
• To evaluate intraindividual outcomes following both surgical techniques for bilateral renal tumors.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of patient-reported outcome measures and scar assessment.
• Questionnaires completed for postoperative day 5 after OPN and RAPN, and date of presentation as reference.

Main Results:

• Open partial nephrectomy (OPN) was associated with longer hospitalization and ischemia times.
• Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) group reported better physical condition, quality of life, and scar satisfaction.
• Patients reported higher stress, depression, and anxiety after OPN and favored RAPN in direct comparison.

Conclusions:

• This study is the first to assess intraindividual perceptions of OPN vs. RAPN.
• Findings indicate a clear patient preference for robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN).
• The APPROACH trial was designed to further compare OPN and RAPN in routine care.