Multi-slice CT in the planning of nephron-sparing interventions for renal cell carcinoma: Prospective study correlated with histopathology

Objective: For nephron sparing surgery of renal cell carcinoma knowledge of the intrarenal extension of the tumor and infiltration of the renal pelvis, the intrarenal vessels and the perinephric fat is essential. This question is much more difficult to answer compared to the description of staging parameters. Aim of this study is to evaluate the value of multi-slice CT in planning of nephron sparing surgery. Material and Methods: In a prospective study 46 patients with suspected renal cell carcinoma underwent a triphasic multi-slice CT (unenhanced, delay 30 s and 120 s). A reconstructed slice thickness of 2 mm in the arterial and parenchymal phase was used to create volume rendered 3D-reconstructions. Based on the source data and multiplanar reconstructed images the extent of the renal cell carcinoma was assessed in terms of size, hilar infiltration, arterial and venous invasions, capsula infiltration and perirenal growth. The results of two blinded readers were correlated with histopathological staging and intraoperative findings. Results: 36 carcinomas were evaluated histopathologically. 10 patients showed no renal cell carcinoma histopatholologically. Multi-slice CT allowed us to diagnose the localization and size of all tumors correctly. Infiltration into perinephric fat was correctly excluded in 24/30 and 8/30 cases. Infiltration of the renal pelvis could be excluded in 17/24 and 12/24 cases. The state of venous infiltration could be correctly diagnosed in 29/30 and 27 /30 carcinomas. Conclusion: Despite of the high temporal and spatial resolution of multi-slice CT, which allows the delineation of intrarenal arteries as well as renal hilus and the veins, the evaluation of tumor infiltration into the renal hilus, the intrarenal vessels and the perinephric fat remains a diagnostic problem. For planning of nephron sparing surgery, a knowledge of the infiltration in these structures is essential.