Long-term results of nephron sparing surgery for localized renal cell carcinoma: 10-year followup.

PURPOSE

Partial nephrectomy is effective for renal cell carcinoma when preservation of renal function is a concern. We present the 10-year followup of patients treated with nephron sparing surgery at our institution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Partial nephrectomy was performed in 107 patients with localized sporadic renal cell carcinoma before December 1988. Tumors were symptomatic in 73 patients (68%) and indications for surgery were imperative in 96 (90%). Of the patients 42 (39%) had renal insufficiency preoperatively. All patients were followed a minimum of 10 years or until death.

RESULTS

At the end of the followup interval 32 patients (30%) had no evidence of recurrence, 28 (26%) died of metastatic renal cell carcinoma and 46 (42%) died of unrelated causes. Cancer specific survival was 88.2% at 5 and 73% at 10 years, and was significantly affected by tumor stage, symptoms, tumor laterality and tumor size. Long-term renal function was stable in 52 patients (49%).

CONCLUSIONS

Partial nephrectomy is effective for localized renal cell carcinoma, providing long-term tumor control with preservation of renal function.