Diagnostic Biopsy for Small Renal Tumours: A Survey of Current European Practice.

Background and objective: Renal tumour biopsy (RTB) can help in risk stratification of renal tumours with implications for management, but its utilisation varies. Our objective was to report current practice patterns, experiences, and perceptions of RTB and research gaps regarding RTB for small renal masses (SRMs). Methods: Two web-based surveys, one for health care providers (HCPs) and one for patients, were distributed via the European Association of Urology Young Academic Urologist Renal Cancer Working Group and the European Society of Residents in Urology in January 2023. Key findings and limitations: The HCP survey received 210 responses (response rate 51%) and the patient survey 54 responses (response rate 59%). A minority of HCPs offer RTB to >50% of patients (14%), while 48% offer it in <10% of cases. Most HCPs reported that RTB influences (61.5%) or sometimes influences (37.1%) management decisions. Patients were more likely to favour active treatment if RTB showed high-grade cancer and less likely to favour active treatment for benign histology. HCPs identified situations in which they would not favour RTB, such as cystic tumours and challenging anatomic locations. RTB availability (67%) and concerns about delays to treatment (43%) were barriers to offering RTB. Priority research gaps include a trial demonstrating that RTB leads to better clinical outcomes, and better evidence that benign/indolent tumours do not require active treatment. Conclusions and clinical implications: Utilisation of RTB for SRMs in Europe is low, even though both HCPs and patients reported that RTB results can affect disease management. Improving timely access to RTB and generating evidence on outcomes associated with RTB use are priorities for the kidney cancer community. Patient summary: A biopsy of a kidney mass can help patients and doctors make decisions on treatment, but our survey found that many patients in Europe are not offered this option. Better access to biopsy services is needed, as well as more research on what happens to patients after biopsy.

The prognostic role of histomorphological subtyping in nonmetastatic papillary renal cell carcinoma after curative surgery: is subtype really irrelevant? A propensity score matching analysis of a multi-institutional real life data.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The role of histomorphological subtyping is an issue of debate in papillary renal cell carcinoma (papRCC). This multi-institutional study investigated the prognostic role of histomorphological subtyping in patients undergoing curative surgery for nonmetastatic papRCC. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 1,086 patients undergoing curative surgery were included from a retrospectively collected multi-institutional nonmetastatic papRCC database. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on histomorphological subtyping (type 1, n = 669 and type 2, n = 417). Furthermore, a propensity score-matching (PSM) cohort in 1:1 ratio (n = 317 for each subtype) was created to reduce the effect of potential confounding variables. The primary outcome of the study, the predictive role of histomorphological subtyping on the prognosis (recurrence free survival [RFS], cancer specific survival [CSS] and overall survival [OS]) in nonmetastatic papRCC after curative surgery, was investigated in both overall and PSM cohorts. RESULTS: In overall cohort, type 2 group were older (66 vs. 63 years, P = 0.015) and more frequently underwent radical nephrectomy (37.4% vs. 25.6%, P < 0.001) and lymphadenectomy (22.3% vs. 15.1%, P = 0.003). Tumor size (4.5 vs. 3.8 cm, P < 0.001) was greater, and nuclear grade (P < 0.001), pT stage (P < 0.001), pN stage (P < 0.001), VENUSS score (P < 0.001) and VENUSS high risk (P < 0.001) were significantly higher in type 2 group. 5-year RFS (89.6% vs. 74.2%, P < 0.001), CSS (93.9% vs. 84.2%, P < 0.001) and OS (88.5% vs. 78.5%, P < 0.001) were significantly lower in type 2 group. On multivariable analyses, type 2 was a significant predictor for RFS (HR:1.86 [95%CI:1.33-2.61], P < 0.001) and CSS (HR:1.91 [95%CI:1.20-3.04], P = 0.006), but not for OS (HR:1.27 [95%CI:0.92-1.76], P = 0.150). In PSM cohort balanced with age, gender, symptoms at diagnosis, pT and pN stages, tumor grade, surgical margin status, sarcomatoid features, rhabdoid features, and presence of necrosis, type 2 increased recurrence risk (HR:1.75 [95%CI: 1.16-2.65]; P = 0.008), but not cancer specific mortality (HR: 1.57 [95%CI: 0.91-2.68]; P = 0.102) and overall mortality (HR: 1.01 [95%CI: 0.68-1.48]; P = 0.981) CONCLUSIONS: This multiinstitutional study suggested that type 2 was associated with adverse histopathologic outcomes, and predictor of RFS and CSS after surgical treatment of nonmetastatic papRCC, in overall cohort. In propensity score-matching cohort, type 2 remained the predictor of RFS. Eventhough 5th WHO classification for renal tumors eliminated histomorphological subtyping, these findings suggest that subtyping is relevant from the point of prognostic view.

Transurethral prostate surgery in prostate cancer patients: A population-based comparative analysis of complication and mortality rates.

Objective: Prostate cancer (PCa) patients might experience lower urinary tract symptoms as those diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Some of them might be treated for their lower urinary tract symptoms instead of PCa. We aimed to test the effect of PCa versus BPH on surgical outcomes after transurethral prostate surgery, namely complication and mortality rates. Methods: Within the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database (2011-2016), we identified patients who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate, photoselective vaporization, or laser enucleation. Patients were stratified according to postoperative diagnosis (PCa vs. BPH). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models evaluated the predictors of perioperative morbidity and mortality. A formal test of interaction between diagnosis and surgical technique used was performed. Results: Overall, 34 542 patients were included. Of all, 2008 (5.8%) had a diagnosis of PCa. The multivariable logistic regression model failed to show statistically significant higher rates of postoperative complications in PCa patients (odds ratio: 0.9, 95% confidence interval: 0.7-1.1; p=0.252). Moreover, similar rates of perioperative mortality (p=0.255), major acute cardiovascular events (p=0.581), transfusions (p=0.933), and length of stay of more than or equal to 30 days (p=0.174) were found. Additionally, all tests failed to show an interaction between post-operative diagnosis and surgical technique used. Conclusion: Patients diagnosed with PCa do not experience higher perioperative morbidity or mortality after transurethral prostate surgery when compared to their BPH counterparts. Moreover, the diagnosis seems to not influence surgical technique outcomes.

Prognostic Significance of Grade Discrepancy Between Primary Tumor and Venous Thrombus in Nonmetastatic Clear-cell Renal Cell Carcinoma: Analysis of the REMEMBER Registry and Implications for Adjuvant Therapy.

BACKGROUND: Further stratification of the risk of recurrence of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) with venous tumor thrombus (VTT) will facilitate selection of candidates for adjuvant therapy. OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of tumor grade discrepancy (GD) between the primary tumor (PT) and VTT in nonmetastatic ccRCC on disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This was a retrospective analysis of a multi-institutional nationwide data set for patients with pT3N0M0 ccRCC who underwent radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy. OUTCOMES MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Pathology slides were centrally reviewed. GD, a bidirectional variable (upgrading or downgrading), was numerically defined as the VTT grade minus the PT grade. Multivariable models were built to predict DFS, OS, and CSS. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: We analyzed data for 604 patients with median follow-up of 42 mo (excluding events). Tumor GD between VTT and PT was observed for 47% (285/604) of the patients and was an independent risk factor with incremental value in predicting the outcomes of interest (all p < 0.05). Incorporation of tumor GD significantly improved the performance of the ECOG-ACRIN 2805 (ASSURE) model. A GD-based model (PT grade, GD, pT stage, PT sarcomatoid features, fat invasion, and VTT consistency) had a c index of 0.72 for DFS. The hazard ratios were 8.0 for GD = +2 (p < 0.001), 1.9 for GD = +1 (p < 0.001), 0.57 for GD = -1 (p = 0.001), and 0.22 for GD = -2 (p = 0.003) versus GD = 0 as the reference. According to model-converted risk scores, DFS, OS, and CSS significantly differed between subgroups with low, intermediate, and high risk (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Routine reporting of VTT upgrading or downgrading in relation to the PT and use of our GD-based nomograms can facilitate more informed treatment decisions by tailoring strategies to an individual patient's risk of progression. PATIENT SUMMARY: We developed a tool to improve patient counseling and guide decision-making on other therapies in addition to surgery for patients with the clear-cell type of kidney cancer and tumor invasion of a vein.

Heart Failure and Erectile Dysfunction: a Review of the Current Evidence and Clinical Implications.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Heart failure (HF) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are two common conditions that affect millions of men worldwide and impair their quality of life. ED is a frequent complication of HF, as well as a possible predictor of cardiovascular events and mortality. ED deserves more attention from clinicians and researchers. RECENT FINDINGS: The pathophysiology of ED in HF involves multiple factors, such as endothelial dysfunction, reduced cardiac output, neurohormonal activation, autonomic imbalance, oxidative stress, inflammation, and drug side effects. The diagnosis of ED in HF patients should be based on validated questionnaires or objective tests, as part of the routine cardiovascular risk assessment. The therapeutic management of ED in HF patients should be individualized and multidisciplinary, considering the patient's preferences, expectations, comorbidities, and potential drug interactions. The first-line pharmacological treatment for ED in HF patients with mild to moderate symptoms (NYHA class I-II) is phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is), which improve both sexual function and cardiopulmonary parameters. PDE5Is are contraindicated in patients who use nitrates or nitric oxide donors for angina relief, and these patients should be advised to avoid sexual activity or to use alternative treatments for ED. Non-pharmacological treatments for ED, such as psychotherapy or couples therapy, should also be considered if there are significant psychosocial factors affecting the patient's sexual function or relationship. This review aims to summarize the most recent evidence regarding the prevalence of ED, the pathophysiology of this condition with an exhaustive analysis of factors involved in ED development in HF patients, a thorough discussion on diagnosis and management of ED in HF patients, providing practical recommendations for clinicians.

Clinical Effects of Oral Supplementation of Gamma-Cyclodextrin Curcumin Complex in Male Patients with Moderate-To-Severe Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia-Related Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms.

INTRODUCTION: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common cause of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) in males. Curcumin exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties which may be effective for BPH. This multi-arm observational study evaluated the real-world efficacy of QURMIN® (Gamma-cyclodextrin-curcumin Complex-CAVACURMIN®) as single or combination therapy for BPH. METHODS: Men with moderate-severe LUTS/BPH, receiving a 6-month supplementation with QURMIN® alone or in combination with BPH-specific medication were propensity score matched with patients not taking curcumin and then divided into subgroups based on concomitant baseline treatment. Cohorts were compared in the 6-month variation of IPSS, quality of life (IPSS-QoL), Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Impact Index (BII) and uroflowmetry parameters. Curcumin tolerability was evaluated in terms of discontinuations and adverse effects. RESULTS: The 1:1 propensity score matching resulted in a treatment-naïve (n = 152), an alpha-blocker only (AB) (n = 138) and AB + 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) (n = 78) subgroup. After 6 months, drug-naïve patients taking curcumin reported significant improvement in IPSS-storage (-3.9, p < 0.001), IPSS-voiding (-2.0, p = 0.011), IPSS-total (-5.9, p < 0.001), IPSS-QoL (-3.9, p < 0.001), BII (-2.0, p < 0.001), Qmax (+3.1 mL/s, p < 0.001), Qmean (+1.9 mL/s, p = 0.005), post-void residual volume (-7.7 mL, p < 0.001), and PSA (-0.3 ng/mL, p = 0.003), compared to controls. Patients taking ABs and curcumin showed improvement in IPSS-storage (-2.7, p < 0.001), IPSS-voiding (-1.3, p = 0.033), IPSS-total (-3.5, p < 0.001), IPSS-QoL (-1.1, p = 0.004), BII (-1.7, p = 0.006), Qmax (+1.0 mL/s, p = 0.006), and PSA (-0.2 ng/mL, p = 0.01). Patients taking curcumin and AB + 5-ARI showed improvement in IPSS-storage (-1.3, p = 0.007), IPSS-total (-1.6, p = 0.034), IPSS-QoL (-1.1, p < 0.001), and BII (-2.0, p < 0.001). No adverse reactions were reported for curcumin supplementation. CONCLUSION: QURMIN® (CAVACURMIN®) led to significant improvements in symptom burden, uroflow parameters, and QoL, without significant additional side effects, thus proving to be a potential new treatment for BPH, either as a single therapy or in addition to standard treatment.

Intermediate-term oncological and functional outcomes in prostate cancer patients treated with perineal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: A single center analysis.

Objective: In the last 10 years, robotic platforms allowed to resume of some alternative surgical approaches, including perineal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (p-RARP). Herein, we present in detail the oncological and functional outcomes of patients who underwent p-RARP with a median follow-up of 30 months. Methods: Patients presenting low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer and prostate volume up to 60 mL who underwent p-RARP between November 2018 and November 2022 were selected. Baseline, intraoperative, pathological, and postoperative data were collected and then analyzed. Results: Thirty-seven p-RARP cases were included. Such patients presented mean age of 62 years and a mean Charlson comorbidity index of 4. Body mass index of ≥25 kg/m2 was reported by 24 (64.9%) patients, as well as 7 (18.9%) patients reported a past surgical history. Mean prostate volume and median prostate-specific antigen were 41 mL and 6.2 ng/mL, respectively. The median operative time was 242 min. The positive surgical margin rate was 45.9%. In terms of postoperative complications, 10 patients reported complications with any grade; however, a single case (2.7%) of major (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3) complication was observed. No patient with biochemical recurrence or distant metastasis was reported at 2 years of follow-up. Recovery of continence rates were 67.6%, 75.7%, and 92.9%, at 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months after surgery, respectively. Conclusion: p-RARP is a challenging but safe minimally invasive approach for selected patients with prostate cancer suitable for radical prostatectomy, showing outstanding functional recovery. Despite positive surgical margin rates being relatively high, no cases of biochemical recurrence or distant metastasis were reported after a median follow-up of 30 months.

Diagnosis of prostate cancer with magnetic resonance imaging in men treated with 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors.

PURPOSE: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate if exposure to 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) modifies the effect of MRI for the diagnosis of clinically significant Prostate Cancer (csPCa) (ISUP Gleason grade ≥ 2). METHODS: This study is a multicenter cohort study including patients undergoing prostate biopsy and MRI at 24 institutions between 2013 and 2022. Multivariable analysis predicting csPCa with an interaction term between 5-ARIs and PIRADS score was performed. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative (NPV) and positive (PPV) predictive values of MRI were compared in treated and untreated patients. RESULTS: 705 patients (9%) were treated with 5-ARIs [median age 69 years, Interquartile range (IQR): 65, 73; median PSA 6.3 ng/ml, IQR 4.0, 9.0; median prostate volume 53 ml, IQR 40, 72] and 6913 were 5-ARIs naïve (age 66 years, IQR 60, 71; PSA 6.5 ng/ml, IQR 4.8, 9.0; prostate volume 50 ml, IQR 37, 65). MRI showed PIRADS 1-2, 3, 4, and 5 lesions in 141 (20%), 158 (22%), 258 (37%), and 148 (21%) patients treated with 5-ARIs, and 878 (13%), 1764 (25%), 2948 (43%), and 1323 (19%) of untreated patients (p < 0.0001). No difference was found in csPCa detection rates, but diagnosis of high-grade PCa (ISUP GG ≥ 3) was higher in treated patients (23% vs 19%, p = 0.013). We did not find any evidence of interaction between PIRADS score and 5-ARIs exposure in predicting csPCa. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of PIRADS ≥ 3 were 94%, 29%, 46%, and 88% in treated patients and 96%, 18%, 43%, and 88% in untreated patients, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to 5-ARIs does not affect the association of PIRADS score with csPCa. Higher rates of high-grade PCa were detected in treated patients, but most were clearly visible on MRI as PIRADS 4 and 5 lesions. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The present study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT05078359.

Neuraxial anesthesia versus general anesthesia in patients undergoing three-dimensional laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: Preliminary results of a prospective comparative study.

Objective: Neuraxial anesthesia (NA) showed to reduce both morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery. We aimed to investigate the use of NA in patients undergoing transperitoneal three-dimensional laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (t-3DLRP) and compare the intraoperative and postoperative outcomes with a control group of patients undergoing t-3DLRP under general anesthesia (GA). Methods: A prospective, double-center, double-surgeon study cohort of 84 consecutive patients undergoing t-3DLRP between June 2019 and June 2021 was analyzed. A study group of 42 patients undergoing t-3DLRP under NA was compared with a control group of 42 patients undergoing t-3DLRP under GA. Results: The two group were similar in all demographic, clinical, and pathological variables. Postoperative blood gas parameters were within physiologic limits in both groups. Muscle relaxation was adequate for surgery during both NA and GA. Median length of stay was 1 day shorter for NA group than GA group (5 days vs. 6 days, p=0.05). t-3DLRP under NA had a statistically lower rate of minor complications (4.8% vs. 19.0%, p=0.03) and less postoperative pain (median numeric rating scale 3 vs. 4, p=0.01) compared to GA. No major complications were observed in both groups. Significantly more patients were willing to undergo a similar intervention under NA than GA (p=0.04). Conclusion: t-3DLRP under NA is a feasible and safe procedure, with less postoperative pain and fewer minor complications than the same procedure under GA. NA allows the maintenance of muscle relaxation and respiratory excursions without interfering with surgery.

Artificial Intelligence in Renal Cell Carcinoma Histopathology: Current Applications and Future Perspectives.

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is characterized by its diverse histopathological features, which pose possible challenges to accurate diagnosis and prognosis. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to explore recent advancements in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) in RCC pathology. The aim of this paper is to assess whether these advancements hold promise in improving the precision, efficiency, and objectivity of histopathological analysis for RCC, while also reducing costs and interobserver variability and potentially alleviating the labor and time burden experienced by pathologists. The reviewed AI-powered approaches demonstrate effective identification and classification abilities regarding several histopathological features associated with RCC, facilitating accurate diagnosis, grading, and prognosis prediction and enabling precise and reliable assessments. Nevertheless, implementing AI in renal cell carcinoma generates challenges concerning standardization, generalizability, benchmarking performance, and integration of data into clinical workflows. Developing methodologies that enable pathologists to interpret AI decisions accurately is imperative. Moreover, establishing more robust and standardized validation workflows is crucial to instill confidence in AI-powered systems' outcomes. These efforts are vital for advancing current state-of-the-art practices and enhancing patient care in the future.

Impact of Variant Histology on Oncological Outcomes in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: Results From the ROBUUST Collaborative Group.

INTRODUCTION: Oncologic implications of variant histology (VH) have been extensively studied in bladder cancer; however, further investigation is needed in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). Our study aims to evaluate the impact of VH on oncological outcomes in UTUC patients treated with radical nephroureterectomy (RNU). METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent a robotic or laparoscopic RNU for UTUC using the ROBUUST database, a multi-institutional collaborative including 17 centers worldwide. Logistic regression was used to assess the effect of VH on urothelial recurrence (bladder, contralateral upper tract), metastasis, and survival following RNU. RESULTS: A total of 687 patients were included in this study. Median (IQR) age was 71 (64-78) years and 470 (68%) had organ confined disease. VH was present in 70 (10.2%) patients. In a median follow-up of 16 months, the incidence of urothelial recurrence, metastasis, and mortality was 26.8%, 15.3%, and 11.8%, respectively. VH was associated with increased risk of metastasis (HR 4.3, P <.0001) and death (HR 2.0, P =.046). In multivariable analysis, VH was noted to be an independent risk factor for metastasis (HR 1.8, P =.03) but not for urothelial recurrence (HR 0.99, P =.97) or death (HR 1.4, P =.2). CONCLUSION: Variant histology can be found in 10% of patients with UTUC and is an independent risk factor for metastasis following RNU. Overall survival rates and the risk of urothelial recurrence in the bladder or contralateral kidney are not affected by the presence of VH.

Single-port robotic partial nephrectomy: impact on perioperative outcomes and hospital stay.

Single-port (SP) robotic surgery is a novel technology and is at the beginning of its adoption curve in urology. The goal of this narrative review is to provide an overview of SP-robotic partial nephrectomy (PN) 4 years after the introduction of the da Vinci SP dedicated platform, focusing on perioperative outcomes, length of stay, and surgical technique. A nonsystematic review of the literature was conducted. The research included the most updated articles that referred to SP robotic PN. Since its commercial release in 2018, several institutions have reproduced robotic PN by using the SP platform, both via a transperitoneal and a retroperitoneal approach. The published SP-robotic PN series are generally based on preliminary experiences by surgeons who had previous experience with conventional multi-arms robotic platforms. The reported outcomes are encouraging. Overall, three studies reported that SP-robotic PN cases had nonsignificantly different operative time, estimated blood loss, overall complications rate, and length of stay compared to the conventional 'multi-arms' robotic PN. However, in all these series, renal masses treated by SP had overall lower complexity. Moreover, two studies underlined decreased postoperative pain as a major pro of adopting the SP system. This should reduce/avoid the need for opioids after surgery. No study compared SP-robotic versus multi-arms robotic PN in cost-effectiveness. Published experience with SP-robotic PN has reported the feasibility and safety of the approach. Preliminary results are encouraging and at least noninferior with respect to those from the multi-arms series. Prospective comparative studies with long-term oncologic and functional results are awaited to draw more definitive conclusions and better establish the more appropriate indications of SP robotics in the field of PN.

Resection Techniques During Robotic Partial Nephrectomy: A Systematic Review.

Context: The resection technique used to excise tumor during robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) is of paramount importance in achieving optimal clinical outcomes. Objective: To provide an overview of the different resection techniques used during RPN, and a pooled analysis of comparative studies. Evidence acquisition: The systematic review was conducted according to established principles (PROSPERO: CRD42022371640) on November 7, 2022. A population (P: adult patients undergoing RPN), intervention (I: enucleation), comparator (C: enucleoresection or wedge resection), outcome (O: outcome measurements of interest), and study design (S) framework was prespecified to assess study eligibility. Studies reporting a detailed description of resection techniques and/or evaluating the impact of resection technique on outcomes of surgery were included. Evidence synthesis: Resection techniques used during RPN can be broadly classified as resection (non-anatomic) or enucleation (anatomic). A standardized definition for these is lacking. Out of 20 studies retrieved, nine compared "standard" resection versus enucleation. A pooled analysis did not reveal significant differences in terms of operative time, ischemia time, blood loss, transfusions, or positive margins. Significant differences favoring enucleation were found for clamping management (odds ratio [OR] for renal artery clamping 3.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13-10.88; p = 0.03), overall complications (OR for occurrence 0.55, 95% CI 0.34-0.87; p = 0.01) major complications (OR for occurrence 0.39, 95% CI 0.19-0.79; p = 0.009), length of stay (weighted mean difference [WMD] -0.72 d, 95% CI -0.99 to -0.45; p < 0.001), and decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (WMD -2.64 ml/min, 95% CI -5.15 to -0.12; p = 0.04). Conclusions: There is heterogeneity in the reporting of resection techniques used during RPN. The urological community must improve the quality of reporting and research produced accordingly. Positive margins are not specifically related to the resection technique. Focusing on studies comparing standard resection versus enucleation, advantages with tumor enucleation in terms of avoidance of artery clamping, overall/major complications, length of stay, and renal function were found. These data should be considered when planning the RPN resection strategy. Patient summary: We reviewed studies on robotic surgery for partial kidney removal using different techniques to cut away the kidney tumor. We found that a technique called "enucleation" was associated with similar cancer control outcomes in comparison to the standard technique and had fewer complications, better kidney function after surgery, and a shorter hospital stay.

Laparoendoscopic single-site radical nephrectomy for localized renal cancer: a descriptive research study with at least a 10-year follow-up.

Background: Laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) surgery is performed to further narrow the incisions and reduce tissue injury. It has been more than10 years since the surgery was first described. However, there is still no report on the results of 10-year follow-up. This study evaluated the use of long-term oncology and the renal outcomes of LESS radical nephrectomy (LESS-RN) in the treatment of localized renal cancer. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of patients treated with LESS-RN at Changhai Hospital from 2009 to 2012. Patients with localized kidney cancer who were followed-up for at least 10 years were included in the study. The baseline data and major perioperative outcome variables were analyzed. Overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: A total of 48 patients were included in the study, which had a median follow-up of 11 years (interquartile range, 10.7-11.8 years). The 10-year OS and CSS rates were 87.5% [42/48; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.778-0.972] and 97.9% (47/48; 95% CI: 0.937-1.021), respectively. At the most recent follow-up, there were 5 patients with a chronic kidney disease stage ≥3. Among these 5 patients, 3 developed uremia and required continuous dialysis. Conclusions: For localized renal cancer, LESS-RN is safe and effective with excellent long-term oncology controllability and good functional outcomes. Prospective studies with large sample sizes need to be conducted to validate our results.

Percutaneous Ablation vs Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy for Completely Endophytic Renal Masses: A Multicenter Trifecta Analysis with a Minimum 3-Year Follow-Up.

Purpose: To compare outcomes of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) and percutaneous tumor ablation (PTA) for completely endophytic renal masses. Methods: Data of patients who underwent RAPN or PTA for treatment of completely endophytic (three points for "E" domain of R.E.N.A.L. score) were collected from seven high-volume U.S. and European centers. PTA included cryoablation, radiofrequency, or microwave ablation. Baseline characteristics, clinical, surgical, and postoperative outcomes were compared. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) was calculated with Kaplan-Meier analysis. Trifecta was used as arbitrary combined outcome parameter as proxy for treatment "quality." Multivariable logistic regression model assessed predictors of trifecta failure. Results: One hundred fifty-two patients (RAPN, n = 60; PTA, n = 92) were included in the analysis. RAPN group was younger (p < 0.001), had lower American Society of Anesthesiologists score (p = 0.002), and higher baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (p < 0.001). There was no difference in clinical tumor size, clinical T stage, and tumor complexity scores. PTA had significantly lower rate of overall (p < 0.001) and minor (p < 0.001) complications. ΔeGFR at 1 year was statistically higher for RAPN (-15.5 mL/min vs -3.1 mL/min; p = 0.005), no difference in ΔeGFR at last follow-up (p = 0.22) was observed. No difference in recurrences (RAPN, n = 2; PTA, n = 6) and RFS was found (p = 0.154). Trifecta achievement was higher for RAPN but not statistically different (65.3% vs 58.8%; p = 0.477). R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry Score resulted predictive of trifecta failure (odds ratio = 1.47; confidence interval = 1.13-1.90; p = 0.004). Conclusions: PTA confirms to be an effective treatment for completely endophytic renal masses, offering low complications and good mid-term functional and oncologic outcomes. These outcomes compare favorably with those of RAPN, which seem to be the preferred option for younger and less comorbid patients.

Percutaneous thermal ablation for cT1 renal mass in solitary kidney: A multicenter trifecta comparative analysis versus robot-assisted partial nephrectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in solitary kidney (SK) represents a challenging scenario. We sought to compare outcomes of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) versus percutaneous thermal ablation (PTA) in SK patients with renal tumors cT1. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a multicenter retrospective analysis of SK patients treated for RCC. The PTA group included cryoablation or radiofrequency ablation. We collected baseline characteristics, intraoperative, pathological, and post-operative data. We applied an arbitrary composite "trifecta" to assess surgical, functional, and oncological outcomes, only for malignant histology. RFS analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to determine independent predictors of "trifecta" achievement. RESULTS: We included 198 SK patients (RAPN, n = 50; PTA n = 119). Mean clinical tumor size was not significantly different while R.E.N.A.L. score was higher for RAPN (p < 0.001). No differences in intra and major post-procedural complications. Recurrence rate was higher in PTA group but not statistically significant (p < 0.328). No difference in metastasis rate was found (p = 0.435). RFS was 96.1% in RAPN and 86.8% in PTA cohort (p = 0.003) while no difference in PFS was detected (p = 0.1). Trifecta was achieved in 72.5% of RAPN vs 77.3% of PTA (p = 0.481). Multivariable analysis has not detected predictors for Trifecta achievement. CONCLUSION: PTA offers good outcomes in the management of SK patients with RCC. Compared with RAPN, it might carry a higher risk of recurrence; on the other hand, re-treatment is possible. Overall, PTA can be safely offered to treat SK patients presenting RCC. In general, it should be preferred in more frail patients to minimize the risk of complications.

Microwave versus cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation for small renal mass: a multicenter comparative analysis.

BACKGROUND: Ablative techniques emerged as effective alternative to nephron-sparing surgery for treatment of small renal masses. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryoablation (CRYO) are the two guidelines-recommended techniques. Microwave ablation (MWA) represents a newer technology, less described. The aim of the study was to compare outcomes of MWA to those of CRYO and RFA. METHODS: Retrospective investigation of patients who underwent MWA, CRYO, or RFA from seven high-volume US and European centers was performed. The first group included patients who underwent CRYO or RFA; the second MWA. We collected baseline characteristics, clinical, intraoperative, and postoperative data. Oncological data included technical success, local recurrence, and progression to metastasis. Multivariate analysis was performed to find predictors for postoperative complications. A composite outcome of "trifecta" was used to assess surgical, functional, and oncological outcomes. RESULTS: 739 patients underwent CRYO or RFA and 50 MWA. CRYO/RFA group had significantly longer operative time (P<0.001), but no difference in LOS, postprocedural Hb mean, intraprocedural complications (P=0.180), overall postprocedural complication rates (P=0.126), and in the 30-day re-admission rate (P=0.853) were detected. No predictive parameter of postprocedural complications was found. Concerning functional outcome, no differences were detected in terms of eGFR at 1 year (P=0.182), ΔeGFR at 1 year (P=0.825) and eGFR at latest follow-up (P=0.070). "Technical success" was achieved in 98.6% of the cases (MWA=100%, CRYO/RFA=98.5%; P=0.775), and there was no significant difference in terms of 2-year recurrence rate (P=0.114) and metastatic progression (P=0.203). Trifecta was achieved in 73.0% of CRYO/RFA vs. 69.6% of MWA cases (P=0.719). CONCLUSIONS: MWA is a safe and effective treatment option for small renal masses. Compared with CRYO/RFA, it seems to offer low complication rates, shorter operation time, and equivalent surgical and functional outcomes.

Screening programs for renal cell carcinoma: a systematic review by the EAU young academic urologists renal cancer working group.

PURPOSE: To systematically review studies focused on screening programs for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and provide an exhaustive overview on their clinical impact, potential benefits, and harms. METHODS: A systematic review of the recent English-language literature was conducted according to the European Association of Urology guidelines and the PRISMA statement recommendations (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021283136) using the MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases. Risk-of-bias assessment was performed according to the QUality In Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool. RESULTS: Overall, nine studies and one clinical trials were included. Eight studies reported results from RCC screening programs involving a total of 159 136 patients and four studies reported screening cost-analysis. The prevalence of RCC ranged between 0.02 and 0.22% and it was associated with the socio-demographic characteristics of the subjects; selection of the target population decreased, overall, the screening cost per diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Despite an increasing interest in RCC screening programs from patients and clinicians there is a relative lack of studies reporting the efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and the optimal modality for RCC screening. Targeting high-risk individuals and/or combining detection of RCC with other health checks represent pragmatic options to improve the cost-effectiveness and reduce the potential harms of RCC screening.

Management of renal cell carcinoma in transplant kidney: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: After transplantation, approximately 10% of renal cell carcinomas are detected in graft kidneys. These tumors (gRCC) present surgeons with the difficulty of finding a treatment that guarantees both oncological clearance and maintenance of function. We conducted a systematic review and an individual patient data meta-analysis on the oncology, safety and functional outcomes of the available treatments for gRCC. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A systematic search was performed across MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science including any study reporting perioperative, functional and survival outcomes for patients undergoing graft nephrectomy (GN), partial nephrectomy (PN) or thermal ablation (TA) for gRCC. Quade's ANCOVA, Spearman Rho and Pearson χ2, Kaplan-Meier, Log-rank and Standard Cox regression and other tests were used to compare treatments. Studies' quality was evaluated using a modified version of Newcastle Ottawa Scale. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: A number of 29 studies (357 patients) were included. No differences between TA and PN were found in terms of safety, functional and oncological outcomes for T1a gRCCs. When applied to pT1b gRCC, PN showed no difference in complications, progression or cancer-specific deaths compared to smaller lesions; PN validity for pT2 gRCCs should be considered unverified due to lack of sufficient evidence. The efficacy and safety of PN or TA for multiple gRCC remain controversial. In case of non-functioning, large (T≥2), complicated or metastatic gRCCs, GN appears to be the most reasonable choice. Quality of evidence ranged from very low to moderate. Studies with large cohorts and longer follow-up are still needed to clarify oncological and functional differences. CONCLUSIONS: PN and TA might be offered as a nephron-sparing treatment in patients with T1a gRCC. There is no significant difference between these options and GN in terms of oncological outcomes and complications. PN and TA offer similar functional outcomes and graft preservation. PN for T1b gRCC seems feasible and safe, but its validity should be considered unverified.