Purpose of review: Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RPN) is an option for patients desiring minimally invasive nephron-sparing surgery. RPN outcomes, including safety, functional results, and oncological control, continue to be reported as the technique emerges. In the current review, we chronicle the development, recent advances, and current status of RPN.
Recent findings: RPN appears to have a shorter learning curve when compared to alternative minimally invasive techniques. Outcomes from recent series have confirmed the safety and feasibility of RPN in the management of small renal masses, many of them in complex locations. Recent comparative studies have demonstrated favorable-to-equivalent outcomes for RPN when compared to laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN), particularly in regards to decreased warm ischemia time. Novel technical developments include use of TilePro, the fourth robotic arm, sliding-clip renorrhaphy, and selective clamping techniques.
Summary: RPN appears to have favorable early-to-intermediate stage outcomes. RPN helps with the technical challenges of LPN, potentially extending the benefits of minimally invasive nephron-sparing surgery to a wider audience of patients and surgeons.