Robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: A single centre Indian experience

BACKGROUND: We summarise our experience with RPN emphasising on learning curve, techniques and outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review of 57 patients was done. The preoperative workup included a triple phase CT angiography. The parameters analyzed were demographics, tumor characteristics, operative details, postoperative outcome, histopathology and follow-up. The data were compared with historical cohort of the laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN). RESULTS: 58 renal units in 57 patients (45 males and 12 females) underwent RPN. The mean age was 53.08 ± 13.6 (30-71) years. The mean tumor size was 4.96 ± 2.33 (2-15.5) cm. Average operative time was 129.4 ± 29.9 (70-200) min.; mean warm ischemia time was 20.9 ± 7.34 (9-39) min. 8 renal units in 7 patients were operated with the zero ischemia technique. The average follow-up was 5.15 months (1-18). There was no recurrence. 15 patients underwent LPN. The mean tumor size was 4.3 ± 1.6 (1.6-8) cm. operative time was 230.7 ± 114.8 (150-300) min.; mean warm ischemia time was 31.8 ± 9 min. The nephromerty score in the LPN group was 7.1 ± 0.89, in the RPN group was 8.75 ± 1.21. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that prior experience of LPN shortens the learning curve for RPN as seen by shorter warm ischemia time and operative time in our series. The nephrometry score in RPN were higher suggesting that complex tumour can be managed with robotic approach.