Patient‐specific simulations and navigation systems for partial nephrectomy

Partial nephrectomy (PN) is the standard treatment for T1 renal cell carcinoma. PN is affected more by surgical variations and requires greater surgical experience than radical nephrectomy. Patient‐specific simulations and navigation systems may help to reduce the surgical experience required for PN. Recent advances in three‐dimensional (3D) virtual reality (VR) imaging and 3D printing technology have allowed accurate patient‐specific simulations and navigation systems. We reviewed previous studies about patient‐specific simulations and navigation systems for PN. Recently, image reconstruction technology has developed, and commercial software that converts two‐dimensional images into 3D images has become available. Many urologists are now able to view 3DVR images when preparing for PN. Surgical simulations based on 3DVR images can change surgical plans and improve surgical outcomes, and are useful during patient consultations. Patient‐specific simulators that are capable of simulating surgical procedures, the gold‐standard form of patient‐specific simulations, have also been reported. Besides VR, 3D printing is also useful for understanding patient‐specific information. Some studies have reported simulation and navigation systems for PN based on solid 3D models. Patient‐specific simulations are a form of preoperative preparation, whereas patient‐specific navigation is used intraoperatively. Navigation‐assisted PN procedures using 3DVR images have become increasingly common, especially in robotic surgery. Some studies found that these systems produced improvements in surgical outcomes. Once its accuracy has been confirmed, it is hoped that this technology will spread further and become more generalized.