| Abstract: |
Background. The role of nephron‐sparing surgery in patients with unilateral renal carcinoma and a normal opposite kidney is controversial. Methods. The number and selection criteria of patients undergoing a partial nephrectomy versus radical nephrectomy from 1979 to 1991 were compared. Results. Of 230 patients having curative surgery for unilateral renal cell carcinoma, 41 had a partial nephrectomy. The percentage of partial compared with total nephrectomies performed increased from 8% in 1979–84, to 20% in 1984–88, and 30% in 1989–91. The increased number of partial versus radical nephrectomies performed reflected an increased detection of small (3.5 cm) incidental renal tumors by radiologic imaging. The local recurrence rate was 2.4% (one patient), and the survival rate was 95% (average, 3 years). Conclusion. Complete local excision of the small serendipitous renal tumor is feasible and reasonable in the patient with an otherwise normal opposite kidney. Copyright © 1994 American Cancer Society |
