Radiofrequency-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: clinical and histologic results.

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate a surface conductive radiofrequency (RF) coagulation instrument (Tissuelink FB3.0) in laparoscopic and open partial nephrectomy (PN) in hereditary kidney cancer. The lesion depth and viability in the pathologic specimens from a surgical series and an acute porcine model were characterized under conditions of vascular perfusion and occlusion. Materials and Methods: A total of 19 patients underwent 20 laparoscopic and open procedures with the device. Data were acquired on tumor number, size, operative time, blood loss, length of stay, renal function, complications, pathologic diagnosis, and surgical-margin status. Renal lesions were created in pigs with the device, ultrasonic shears, and a standard electrocautery for specified time intervals and operative energy settings. These lesions were analyzed for depth, diameter, and tissue viability. Results: In 20 separate (14 laparoscopic; 6 open) procedures in 19 patients, a total of 112 tumors were removed (range 1–31 tumors per pro...