Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for multiple tumours: feasibility and analysis of peri-operative outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

• To describe our experience with laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for multiple kidney tumours and compare the outcomes with LPN performed for single masses.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• Retrospective analysis of medical records of patients undergoing LPN at our institution between 2005 and 2009 was performed. • The cohort was divided in two groups based on tumour focality: group 1, LPN for a single tumour (n= 99) and group 2, LPN for multiple ipsilateral tumours (n= 12). • The groups were compared with regards to demographic and peri-operative variables.

RESULTS

• Demographic variables were not different between the groups. Median dominant tumour size was 3.1 cm (interquartile range [IQR] 2.4-4.0) and 4.0 cm (2.3-5.9) in groups 1 and 2, respectively. • Median secondary tumour size in group 2 was 1.0 cm (1.0-1.8). • Operative times were longer in group 2 compared with group 1 (220 vs 160 min, P= 0.009). • Warm ischaemia times (WIT) (23 vs 22 min) and estimated blood loss (EBL) (100 vs 85 mL) were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

• LPN is a viable option for the treatment of multiple ipsilateral renal tumours. • Peri-operative outcomes are similar to standard LPN with the exception of longer operative time. • In experienced hands, the advantages of minimally invasive surgery may be extended to select patients with ipsilateral multifocal renal tumours.