Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation assisted partial nephrectomy versus laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for renal angiomyolipomas : experience from a medical center

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the functional outcome, safety and efficacy of laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation assisted partial nephrectomy (LRAPN) versus laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for renal angiomyolipoma (AML). Methods: 103 patients treated with LRAPN or LPN were recruited into present study, and the perioperative characteristics were compared. Results: All operations were performed successfully without massive hemorrhage or switch into open surgery. The baseline characteristics were comparable between two groups. In LRAPN group and LPN group, the median tumor size was 6.35 cm and 6.63 cm, mean operative time (OT) was 88.7 min and 100 min (P<0.05), mean warm ischemia time (WIT) was 0 min and 18.7 min (P<0.05); mean estimated blood loss (EBL) was 105.6 ml and 134 ml (P<0.05), mean retroperitoneal drainage lasted 3 days and 3.5 days, and mean postoperative hospital stay was 5.12 days and 5.6 days, respectively. The postoperative change in eGFR was significantly smaller in LRAPN group than in LPN group (P<0.05). No recurrence occurred in these patients during a median follow up duration of 43.6 months. Conclusion: LRAPN is an alternative, safe and feasible approach for the treatment of AML and may achieve better kidney function, less blood loss and shorter operative time as compared to LPN.