Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: Fifty cases

Purpose: Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) is a technically challenging procedure. The goal of this study is to describe the outcomes of 50 consecutive patients undergoing LPN performed by one surgeon. Materials and Methods: Records were reviewed for clinical, pathologic, and follow-up information for patients undergoing LPN. Clinical parameters were assessed in both the first 25 and last 25 cases to see if there was a measurable learning curve. Results: Fifty-two patients underwent attempted LPN; 50 were successful and 2 were converted to open partial nephrectomy. Mean operating room time was 155 minutes, mean estimated blood loss was 172 mL, and mean pathologic size was 2.6 cm. Final pathology revealed malignancy in 60% of cases and oncocytoma in 22% of cases. Margins were clear for all of the primary lesions. Overall complications were 16%, with cardiopulmonary complications being the most common. There were no significant differences in the outcomes of the first 25 and the last 25 patients, with the exception of length of stay (3.1 days v 2.5 days). Conclusions: After laparoendoscopic fellowship training in LPN, acceptable outcomes are achievable, and the learning curve is minimal. Long-term studies are needed on the efficacy of LPN, and further studies need to be performed to optimize the learning process for this technique.