The arthroscopic "subdeltoid approach" to the anterior shoulder.

Surgical management of shoulder pathologies has evolved tremendously during the past 3 decades, such that many lesions previously treated with open techniques are now addressed arthroscopically. Despite this movement, many surgeons and outcome studies continue to prefer open repairs as the gold standard, criticizing--with good reason--the reliability, reproducibility, and extended operative time of arthroscopic repairs, particularly with respect to anterior stabilizations and subscapularis repairs. With this in mind, we present the arthroscopic "subdeltoid approach," a novel standardized exposure technique for extracompartmental anterior shoulder arthroscopy. We define the subdeltoid space as the fascial plane bound superiorly by the acromion and coracoacromial ligament, medially by the coracoid and the conjoint tendon, inferiorly by the musculotendinous insertion of the pectoralis major to the humerus, and laterally by the lateral border of the humerus. When coupled with existing arthroscopic tools, this space dramatically enhances our ability to apply open techniques to some of the more challenging anterior shoulder pathoanatomy and expand the indications and efficacy of arthroscopy. This exposure technique has been used in more than 300 cases during the past decade to treat a myriad of shoulder pathologies, without any longstanding postoperative complications.

Preoperative radiographic parameters predict long-term renal impairment following partial nephrectomy.

PURPOSE: We analyzed radiographic parameters describing anatomic features of renal tumors to identify preoperative characteristics that could help predict long-term decline in renal function following partial nephrectomy. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 194 consecutive patients who underwent partial nephrectomy from January 2006 to March 2009 and analyzed a cohort of 53 patients for whom complete clinical, radiographic, and operative information was available. Computed tomography images were reviewed by a single radiologist. Radiographic criteria for describing renal tumor size and location included diameter, volume, endophytic properties, proximity to collecting system, anterior/posterior location, location relative to polar lines, and R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score. Postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate was calculated using the MDRD study group equation with serum creatinine at last follow-up. RESULTS: The median preoperative and postoperative GFR values were 75 (IQR 65-97) and 66 (IQR 55-84) mL/min/1.73 m(2), respectively. At a median follow-up of 38 months, the median percentage decrease in GFR was 12%. On univariate analyses, tumor diameter (P = 0.002), tumor volume (P < 0.0001), nearness of tumor to collecting system (P = 0.017), and location relative to polar lines (P = 0.017) were associated with percentage decrease in GFR. Furthermore, higher R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score was also associated with poorer renal functional outcomes following partial nephrectomy (P = 0.019). CONCLUSIONS: Anatomic features of renal tumors defined by preoperative radiographic characteristics correlate with the degree of renal functional decline after partial nephrectomy. Identification of these parameters may assist in patient counseling and clinical decision making following partial nephrectomy. Validation in larger prospective studies is necessary.

Laparoscopic and open partial nephrectomy: complication comparison using the Clavien system.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To compare postoperative complications in patients undergoing laparoscopic and open partial nephrectomy using a standardized complication-reporting system and a standardized tumor-scoring system. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 189 consecutive patients with nephrometry scores available who underwent elective partial nephrectomy for renal masses. Demographic, perioperative, and complication data were recorded. By using the modified Clavien scale, we graded 30- and 90-day complication rates. RESULTS: 107 patients underwent laparoscopic partial nephrectomy and 82 underwent open partial nephrectomy (N=189). Open partial nephrectomy patients had higher nephrometry scores than laparoscopic patients had (7.1±2.4 vs. 5.6±1.8, P<.001). Surgical and hospitalization times were shorter, and estimated blood loss was lower in the laparoscopic group (P<.001). At 30 days, there were more overall complications in the open group, but more major complications in the laparoscopic group (P>.05). After multivariable logistic regression analysis, only higher body mass index and higher estimated blood loss were predictors of more overall complications. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy has the advantages of decreased operative time, lower blood loss, and shorter hospital stay. The complication rate in the laparoscopic group is similar to that in the open group, despite favorable tumor characteristics in the laparoscopic group.