Imaging Features of Renal Masses to Select Optimal Candidates for Tumor Enucleation Partial Nephrectomy

Abstract

Purpose of review: The goal of this paper was to critically evaluate preoperative findings that optimally select candidates for renal tumor enucleation partial nephrectomy.

Recent findings: Tumor enucleation has been widely accepted as a management option for patients with chronic kidney disease, hereditary renal cell carcinoma, or multifocal disease. Recent evidence suggests safety and efficacy in the management of routine small renal masses. With recent advances in imaging, the literature for ruling out aggressive renal cell carcinoma and selection for tumor enucleation is robust. As the incidence of renal cell carcinoma rises, partial nephrectomy continues to be the mainstay of treatment for localized renal cell carcinoma. Tumor enucleation maximizes preservation of renal parenchyma without hindering oncologic outcomes. It is important to recognize key tumor radiologic findings which urologists may use to optimize patient selection for tumor enucleation.

Keywords: Magnetic resonance imaging; Partial nephrectomy; Pseudocapsule; Renal cell carcinoma; Tumor enucleation.