Partial Nephrectomy

Partial Nephrectomy is the recommended method of care for Renal Cell Carcinoma; yet, its prevalence in clinical practice is still considerably less than where most surgical leaders consider appropriate.  In the video to the right, Dr Paul Russo of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York provides a strong rationale in advocating widespread use of Partial Nephrectomy.  

To summarize:

• Partial Nephrectomy provides equivalent local Tumor control to Radical Nephrectomy for Tumors of 7cm or less
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is already present in 26% of Kidney Tumor Patients.  Chronic Kidney Disease is an independent risk factor for the development of Cardiovascular Disease, Hospitalization, and Death
• Radical Nephrectomy is an independent risk factor for the development of Chronic Kidney Disease.  Radical Nephrectomy is associated with increased post operative cardiovascular events and worse overall survival
• Partial Nephrectomy is underutilized in the USA and abroad.  Increased training in Partial Nephrectomy (Open and Laparoscopic) is indicated

Video:  The Rationale for Partial Nephrectomy

by Dr Paul Russo, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC)