Navigating the Aftermath: A Comprehensive Scoping Review on Follow-up Strategies After Kidney-sparing Surgery for Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma

Background and objective: Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) can be managed efficiently and safely through kidney-sparing surgery (KSS) in selected patient groups. However, the most effective and efficient postoperative surveillance strategy remains undetermined. We aimed to provide a comprehensive synopsis of the follow-up strategies and survival outcomes in patients diagnosed with UTUC treated by KSS.

Methods: Following the systematic methodology outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews, we conducted searches in four databases (MEDLINE [Ovid], Embase [Ovid], Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) up until December 11, 2023.

Key findings and limitations: A total of 3121 articles underwent screening, of which 19 were selected for inclusion in this review. The follow-up schedules after KSS exhibited considerable variability among the included studies. Diagnostic modalities employed consisted of computed tomography urography (present in 84% of protocols), X urography (21%), ultrasound (21%), thoracic imaging (26%), voided urine cytology (89%), selective upper tract cytology (5.3%), cystoscopy (84%), and ureterorenoscopy (53%) at varying frequencies. At 5 yr of follow-up, the reported recurrence-free survival rate ranged from 30% to 86%, overall survival was 50-92%, and metastasis-free survival was 77-90%.

Conclusions and clinical implications: This review unveils significant heterogeneity in clinical practices and survival outcomes, indicating disparities between real-world approaches and guideline recommendations. The lack of consensus on follow-up schemes is evident, emphasising the necessity for future initiatives aimed at developing a comprehensive protocol.

Patient summary: This review shows significant heterogeneity in follow-up strategies after kidney-sparing surgery for upper tract urothelial carcinoma. A lack of evidence contributes to discrepancies between guidelines and real-world approaches. Thus, future endeavours should aim at establishing a comprehensive protocol.