Current status of partial nephrectomy in the management of kidney cancer

Background: The technique of partial nephrectomy for managing renal cancers is well recognized, but guidelines regarding indications for its use are not generally accepted. Methods: The authors review the indications for partial nephrectomy in various clinical situations, and they include their own experience to clarify the utility of the technique. Results: Intraoperative renal ultrasound and helical computed tomography can assist the surgeon in technical decisions. Partial nephrectomy is considered when nephrectomy would render the patient anephric and dependent on dialysis. Conclusions: The technical and operative advances in partial nephrectomy make the approach increasingly attractive for patients with kidney cancer in a variety of clinical circumstances.