What's new in robotic partial nephrectomy.

Objective: Robot assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is a minimally invasive option for patients with small renal masses undergoing partial nephrectomy. In this review we provide an update on the oncological safety and renal functional outcomes following RAPN. We also discuss the novel techniques and technological advances that have contributed to the outcomes of RAPN. 

Methods: A Medline search using the keywords "partial nephrectomy", "robotic partial nephrectomy", "robot assisted partial nephrectomy", "robot assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy" and "laparoscopic partial nephrectomy" was conducted to identify original articles, review articles, and editorials on RAPN.

Results: A review of the literature suggests that RAPNis emerging as the preferred approach to minimally invasive nephron sparing surgery. RAPN is superior to laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) and open partial nephrectomy (OPN) in terms of perioperative outcomes with equivalent mid-term oncological outcomes. RAPN has proven safety and efficacy even in complex renal tumors with equivalent oncological and functional outcomes. Novel techniques and advances in technology have contributed to the safety and efficacy of RAPN.

Conclusion: RAPN can be considered to be the gold standard approach to minimally invasive nephronsparing surgery with equivalent oncological and  renal functional outcomes and superior perioperative outcomes when compared to OPN. Newer techniques and developments in robotic technology have contributed to improved outcomes following RAPN.