Role of minimally invasive partial nephrectomy in the management of renal mass

Partial nephrectomy is recommended for surgical management of small renal masses (SRM), or lesions ≤7 cm. The decision for surgical intervention involves a balanced patient assessment. Minimally invasive approach, which includes laparoscopic and robotic techniques, has shown to have improved blood loss, length of hospitalization, and post-operative pain while maintaining oncologic efficacy when compared to an open approach. Transperitoneal approach is preferred at most centers; however, retroperitoneoscopic minimally invasive surgery (MIS) partial nephrectomy expertise is essential for comprehensive kidney cancer care. With advances in surgical technology and deep penetration of robotics into surgical training and practice, robotic partial nephrectomy has become the modality of choice in modern clinical practice. This review discusses the indications and outcomes for various minimally invasive approaches of partial nephrectomy.