Renorrhaphy techniques and effect on renal function with robotic partial nephrectomy

Purpose The role of robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) is becoming increasingly prevalent in managing small renal masses. Renal functional outcomes have been reported with relation to the amount of healthy renal parenchyma resected and ischemia time; however, there is limited data on the effect of renorrhaphy on long-term renal function. Our aim is to evaluate the impact of renorrhaphy technique on renal functional outcomes. Methods A nonsystematic literature review was performed to retrieve articles assessing renorrhaphy techniques and renal function outcomes, specifically focusing on single-layer vs. traditional two-layer renorrhaphy. Results Performing single-layer renorrhaphy while omitting cortical renorrhaphy appears to improve renal function postoperatively, based on very limited studies in the literature that were evaluated. Conclusion Single-layer renorrhaphy may be associated with improved postoperative renal function and could prove to be useful in patients with chronic renal insufficiency or solitary kidney. The ongoing clinical trial NCT02131376 may provide further information on the impact of renorrhaphy technique on long-term renal function.