Usefulness of renal nephrometry scoring systems in the prediction of complications associated to percutaneous image-guided treatment for small renal masses.

INTRODUCTION: Due to their increasing prevalence and complex management, renal tumors are challenging for health professionals. The study aims to evaluate the usefulness of R.E.N.A.L. and PADUA nephrometry scores in the prediction of complications after percutaneous cryoablation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study prospectively analyzed 90 patients with 101 stage T1a renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tumors treated with cryoablation. RESULTS: Ninety patients with 101 small renal tumors who received cryoablative therapy were investigated. The mean age of the patients was 68 years and 74.4% were male. Most tumors were smaller than 4 cm (89.1%) and the mean PADUA and R.E.N.A.L. scores were 8.65 and 7.35, respectively. Complications were observed in 12 cases. PADUA and R.E.N.A.L. scores demonstrated moderate predictive power (AUC = 0.58 and AUC = 0.63, respectively) for post-cryoablation complications. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous cryoablation is a safe and effective treatment for small renal tumors. The R.E.N.A.L. and PADUA renal nephrometry scores have moderate predictive power for complications associated with percutaneous cryoablation of renal tumors.