Preservation Of Renal Function Research Articles

The effect of 11th rib excision on perioperative outcomes in patients undergoing partial nephrectomy for upper pole renal tumors.

We aimed to evaluate the effect of eleven11th rib resection.on the perioperative period TRIFECTA criteria in patients who underwent retroperitoneal partial nephrectomy (PN) with the diagnosis of upper pole kidney tumors. We conducted a retrospective analysis of the data of the patients who underwent Open PN for upper pole renal masses between 2018 and 2023. The patients were divided into two groups: PN with rib resection and PN without rib resection. The demographic characteristics, tumor sizes, PADUA scores, warm-cold renal ischemia times, mass excision and tumor bed suturing times, histopathological tumor type and surgical margin positivity of the patients were examined. Both groups were evaluated comparatively based on this data. The renal nephrometry scores of the two groups were similar. The total renal ischemia time was significantly shorter in the patients who underwent a rib resection than in those who did not (p < 0.001). Both the tumor excision and tumor bed suturing times were significantly shorter in the group that underwent a rib resection than in the group that did not (p < 0.001). The Clavien-Dindo complication grades were statistically similar between the two groups. Complex in nature and high-risk renal masses located in the upper pole of the kidney, partial nephrectomy performed with an 11th rib resection can be considered a reliable surgical option with a shorter ischemia time, supporting the preservation of long-term renal function.

#1827 Myeloma cast nephropathy: is high cut-off hemodialysis effective?

Abstract Background and Aims Light-chain cast nephropathy is the result of intra-tubular precipitation of light-chains produced by a multiple myeloma. Treatment often includes high cut-off filters hemodialysis (HCO) with the purpose of purifying these chains until the chemotherapy response is achieved. The main goal of this study is to analyze our experience and determine if there is a correlation between the amount of chain purified and the conservation of renal function. Method We conducted a retrospective study that includes all patients suffering from myeloma cast nephropathy treated with hemodialysis in our hospital between 2008 and 2023. HCO filters were used in all of the cases and the diagnosis was established by clinical criteria. In the early stages of the study, only those patients who required kidney replacement therapy underwent dialysis. However, in recent years some cases which did not meet the renal replacement criteria were included. Results 27 patients received the treatment, 59,3% were male and the average age was 68,7+/-8 years. Even though the average of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) previous to the myeloma was 72,65+/-20ml/min, it should be underlined that 8 of them suffered from 3-4 stage chronic kidney disease. The mean follow-up was 55 months, after which 16 had passed away. 59,3% were kappa gammapathy and 75% of them had bone disease. Chemotherapy schemes were variable (85% included Bortezomib). The average of dialysis sessions was 8+/-3,8. 7 patients continued undergoing conventional hemodialysis during the hospital stay but only one of them remained in chronic dialysis. The average GFR at the beginning was 12,2+/-7ml/min. Despite the improvement of the renal function, when compared to the previous GFR, a statistically significant reduction in both hospital discharge (43,67ml/min) and after 1- and 2-year periods (51,94 and 39,91ml/min) was observed. No differences in renal function between patients who started dialysis prematurely (GFR&amp;gt;10ml/min) and those who did not were noticed. The light-chain reduction ratio in each dialysis was examined; it was remarkably variable (2-87%). In order to establish a connection between the amount of chain purified and the preservation of renal function, we conducted a correlation analysis between the intra-dialysis reduction of chains and the GFR at hospital discharge and after 1-year, but not statistically interrelations were observed (p=0,376 and 0,633 respectively). Lastly, no connection between the intra-dialysis light-chain reduction and the loss of GFR was detected. Conclusion In patients with myeloma cast nephropathy, a higher purification of light-chains in HCO hemodialysis is not associated with a better preservation of renal function.

#2879 Residual kidney function is more than urinary output alone in PD patients: insights derived from tubular functional Na MRI of the kidney

Abstract Background and Aims Maintenance of a cortico-medullary concentration gradient (CMG) is required for urine concentration and is one of most important tubular functions. We have previously demonstrated that the CMG can be quantified in both healthy controls and patients receiving HD, using 23NaMRI of the kidney. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, in general, are considered to have better preservation of residual renal function (RKF), than comparative haemodialysis (HD) patients. We aimed to investigate if this was evident with respect to functional imaging of the CMG, to explore the concept that glomerular and tubular function may be dichotomized in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) requiring maintenance dialysis. Method We conducted an exploratory pilot study for 8 PD patients and 21 HD patients. Patients were instructed to fast from midnight before scanning. Urines samples were collected to measure osmolarity after fasting and a first MRI scan- performed to acquire baseline anatomical and sodium images. All MR imaging was carried out on a GE MR750 3T (GE Healthcare, WI) instrument. A custom-built two-loop (18cm in diameter) butterfly radiofrequency surface coil tuned for 23Na frequency (33.786 MHz) was used to acquire renal 23Na images. Results PD participants were 60 ± 10 years old, 50% male, mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.7 ± 4.6 kg/m2 and dialysis vintage was 20 ± 13 months, mean creatinine and urea clearance was 12 ± 7 mL/min/1.73 m2; HD participants were well matched, 60 ±18 years old, 52% men, BMI 27 ± 6 kg/m2 and dialysis vintage was 33 ± 25 months respectively. Urinary osmolarity was 284 ± 66 mosm/L and 239 ± 72, p = 0.1; mean medulla to cortex ratio was 1.2 ± 0.2 and 1.2 ± 0.1, p = 0.2 between PD and HD participants respectively. 7/8 PD participants were able to perform 24 hrs urine collection. Mean urine volume was substantial at 1525 ± 594 mL. We found no correlation between urine volume and corticomedullary gradient (Fig. 1A). Fig. 2C illustrates a 75 year old male, with medulla to cortex ratio at 1, urine volume 2100 mL, CLcrUr 18 mL/min/1.73 m2 and Fig. 1C showed a 55 years old patients, male, medulla to cortex ratio at 1.4, urine volume 2100 mL, CLcrUr 18 mL/min/1.73 m2. Conclusion These results underscore residual kidney function currently estimated by urine volume provides an incomplete assessment. Despite PD patients retaining higher degrees of RKF than HD patients, as assessed by urinary volume and small solute clearance, both patient groups have very similar degrees of directly imaged tubular function. The clinical importance of a focus on functional tubular mass to outcomes in dialysis patients is currently under further investigation.

#2361 The influence of glucose biocompatible solutions to the clinical outcomes of patients treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

Abstract Background and Aims The use of biocompatible glucose solutions is associated with longer preservation of residual renal function and less frequent occurrence of complications in patients on peritoneal dialysis. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of conventional and biocompatible glucose solutions to laboratory parameters and clinical outcomes of PD patients during a four-year period at Zvezdara University Medical Center. Method This retrospective study included 25 incident patients treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) during the follow up period from 2018 to 2022. During 2018/2019 these patients used conventional solutions (Dianeal PD4) containing lactate as a buffer, while due to the change in solution production technology in 2020/2021, all patients were transferred to a biocompatible solution (Physioneal 40) with lactate and bicarbonate as a buffer. Clinical outcomes were compared in relation to the administered solution: pain during infusion (measured by a Visual Analogue Scale—VAS), correction of anaemia and bicarbonate, average annual 24h diuresis and 24h ultrafiltration, occurrence of CAPD peritonitis. The statistical significance of the differences between the two periods was checked using the SPSS. Results The average age of 25 patients was 61 ± 14 years, of which 59.1% were male and 40.9% female. The average BMI was 28.5 ± 5.30 kg/m2, and the most common comorbidities were HTA and DM. No statistically significant difference was found for the values of Le, albumin, Hb, PTH, bicarbonate, and K (p ˃ 0.05). During the use of biocompatible solutions, patients had statistically significantly lower Na values (138.84 ± 2.63 vs 137.17 ± 2.41 mmol/l, p = 0.0116, 95% CI 137.15– 138.84) and lower CRP values (15.3 ± 3.3 mg/l vs 7.7 ± 3.2, p = 0.0003, 95% CI 18.60-4.50). Although the dialysis exposure was longer, the rate of peritonitis was lower during the use of biocompatible solutions, but without a statistically significant difference (0.40 episodes per patient-year, vs 0.31 episodes per patient-year, p ˃ 0.05). No statistical significance was found in 24h diuresis value (900 ml vs 750 ml, p = 0.167.95% CI 686.90–1203.31) but the value is expected to be lower due to dialysis duration. Conclusion Our study showed that patients treated with the CAPD method while using a biocompatible solution have statistically significantly higher values of 24h ultrafiltration, lower Na and CRP values and less occurrence of pain during infusion, which significantly affects the quality of life. Although this may indicate better preservation of the peritoneal membrane, a prospective and randomized study is needed to clarify these potential differences.

#510 Evaluating tolvaptan as a protective agent for cardiac insufficiency in peritoneal dialysis patients

Abstract Introduction Peritoneal dialysis serves as a highly effective renal replacement therapy, offering prolonged preservation of residual renal function, improved blood pressure regulation, and enhanced quality of life. While diuretics are generally considered safe and beneficial in this context, their efficacy may be limited in certain cases. Background and Aims The rationale behind investigating the potential benefits of tolvaptan in peritoneal dialysis stems from existing studies in Asia, where the use of tolvaptan has been approved in this population. These studies, conducted on patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis, indicate notable improvements in urine output and key heart failure indicators such as Left Ventricular Mass Index (LVMI) and Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP). Materials &amp; Methods Recognizing the significance of these findings, a recent meta-analysis was conducted to comprehensively assess the collective data. The meta-analysis encompassed data from five pertinent studies involving a total of 70 peritoneal dialysis patients, with an average age of 66.1 ± 15 years. Participants received tolvaptan in doses of up to 15 mg, and the mean follow-up period was 8.2 ± 3.9 months. Results Results from the meta-analysis revealed a significant increase in urine volume in two out of four instances (Mean Difference [MD]= +554.5 cc [379,730], I²=61.5). While most studies did not indicate substantial changes in body weight or renal kt/V, a notable reduction in Left Ventricular Mass Index was evident in two studies (MD= -43.28 [-84.9,-1.6], I²=80.6%). Additionally, a substantial reduction in BNP was reported in one study, with no documented adverse events across the studies. Conclusion As an adjunct therapy, tolvaptan exhibits potential benefits in volume control, potentially contributing to improved cardiac function in peritoneal dialysis patients. The findings of this study align with existing research, highlighting the positive impact of tolvaptan on heart failure markers. Nevertheless, further high-quality studies are imperative to consolidate and validate these observed benefits in the peritoneal dialysis population.

Predictors of renal function deterioration at one year after off-clamp non-renorrhaphy partial nephrectomy.

Preservation of renal function is an important goal in renal cell carcinoma-related surgery. Although several case-dependent techniques for renal pedicle clamping and hemostasis have been used, their effects on long-term renal function are controversial. The clinical records of 114 patients who underwent off-clamp non-renorrhaphy open partial nephrectomy at our hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Perioperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) preservation was calculated, and predictors of eGFR decline 12 months post-surgery and overtime deterioration of renal function were identified using a multivariate regression analysis. The median patient age was 65 years, and the median tumor size was 27 mm. The mean eGFR preservation at 1, 3, and 12 months post-surgery were 90.1%, 89.0%, and 86.9%, respectively. eGFR decline at 1 and 3 months were associated with poor eGFR preservation at 12 months with the odds ratio (95% confidence interval (CI)) of 1.97 and 3.157, respectively. Multivariate regression analyses revealed that tumor size was an independent predictor of eGFR decline at 12 months. Among 65 patients with eGFR preservation over 90% at 1 month post-surgery, eGFR value of 28 patients deteriorated below 90% at 12 months post-surgery compared with preoperative eGFR. Tumor size and eGFR preservation at 1 month were independent predictors of long-term renal function deterioration. Tumor size predicted eGFR decline 12 months post-surgery. Only a mild decline in eGFR was observed between 3 and 12 months after open partial nephrectomy. Tumor size and eGFR preservation at 1 month predicted the deterioration of renal function over time.

Management of renal sinus angiomyolipoma: modified robotic nephron-sparing surgery in a single center

BackgroundRenal sinus angiomyolipoma (RSAML) is a rare and typically complex renal tumor. The objective is to present our single-center experience with a modified technique of robotic nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) for treating RSAML.MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated 15 patients with RSAMLs who were treated with robotic NSS at the Department of Urology of Tongji hospital, ranging from November 2018 to September 2022. Renal vessels and ureter were dissected. The outer part of RSAML was resected. The rest of tumor was removed by bluntly grasp, curettage and suction. Absorbable gelatin sponges were filled in the renal sinus. The preoperative parameters, operative measures and postoperative outcomes were all collected. Follow-up was performed by ultrasonography and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).ResultsRobotic NSS was successfully performed in all the patients, without any conversion to open surgery or nephrectomy. The mean operation time was 134.13 ± 40.56 min. The mean warm ischemia time was 25.73 ± 3.28 min. The median estimated blood loss was 100 [50, 270] ml and 1 patient required blood transfusion. The mean drainage duration was 5.77 ± 1.98 days. The median postoperative hospital stay was 6.90 [5.80, 8.70] days. Two patients experienced postoperative urinary tract infection (Clavien-Dindo Grade II). During the median follow-up of 25.53 ± 15.28 months, patients received 91.18% renal function preservation. No local recurrence occurred in all the patients.ConclusionsRobotic NSS for RSAML is a complicated procedure that demands technical expertise and a well-designed strategy is critical in the operation. Treating RSAML with modified robotic NSS is safe, effective and feasible.

Endoscopic Cryoablation Versus Radical Nephroureterectomy for Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma

Background and objectiveCryoablation is a traditional antitumor therapy with good prospects for development. The efficacy of endoscopic management as a kidney-sparing surgery for high-risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) remains controversial. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of endoscopic cryoablation (ECA) versus radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) on survival outcomes, renal function, and complications. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed data for 116 patients with newly diagnosed high-risk UTUC who underwent either ECA (n = 13) or RNU (n = 103) from March 25, 2019 to December 8, 2021. Propensity score matching (1:4) using the nearest neighbor method was performed before analysis. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS), intravesical recurrence-free survival (RFS), the change in renal function, and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). Key findings and limitationsAt median follow-up of 28.2 mo for the ECA group and 27.6 mo for the RNU group, 2-yr OS (82% vs 84%), PFS (73% vs 71%), and intravesical RFS (81% vs 83%) rates after matching did not significantly differ. A decline in renal function was observed after RNU, but not after ECA. Five (41.7%) patients in the ECA group reported six TEAEs, and 17 patients (35.4%) in the RNU group reported 20 TEAEs. Conclusions and clinical implicationsIn comparison to RNU, ECA for UTUC resulted in noninferior oncological outcomes and superior preservation of renal function. Patient summaryOur study suggests that a treatment called endoscopic cryoablation for high-risk cancer in the upper urinary tract can help in preserving kidney function, with similar survival outcomes to those after more extensive surgery. This option can be considered for selected patients with a strong preference for kidney preservation.

Palopegteriparatide Treatment Improves Renal Function in Adults with Chronic Hypoparathyroidism: 1-Year Results from the Phase3 PaTHway Trial.

Individuals with chronic hypoparathyroidism managed with conventional therapy (active vitaminD and calcium) have an increased risk for renal dysfunction versus age- and sex-matched controls. Treatments that replace the physiologic effects of parathyroid hormone (PTH) while reducing the need for conventional therapy may help prevent a decline in renal function in this population. This post hoc analysis examined the impact of palopegteriparatide treatment on renal function in adults with chronic hypoparathyroidism. PaTHway is a phase3 trial of palopegteriparatide in adults with chronic hypoparathyroidism that included a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 26-week period followed by an ongoing 156-week open-label extension (OLE) period. Changes in renal function over 52weeks (26weeks blinded + 26weeks OLE) were assessed using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). A subgroup analysis was performed with participants stratified by baseline eGFR < 60 or ≥ 60mL/min/1.73m2. At week52, over 95% (78/82) of participants remained enrolled in the OLE and of those, 86% maintained normocalcemia and 95% achieved independence from conventional therapy (no active vitaminD and ≤ 600mg/day of calcium), with none requiring active vitaminD. Treatment with palopegteriparatide over 52weeks resulted in a mean (SD) increase in eGFR of 9.3 (11.7)mL/min/1.73m2 from baseline (P < 0.0001) and 43% of participants had an increase ≥ 10mL/min/1.73m2. In participants with baseline eGFR < 60mL/min/1.73m2, 52weeks of treatment with palopegteriparatide resulted in a mean (SD) increase of 11.5 (11.3) mL/min/1.73m2 (P < 0.001). One case of nephrolithiasis was reported for a participant in the placebo group during blinded treatment; none were reported through week52 with palopegteriparatide. In this post hoc analysis of the PaTHway trial, palopegteriparatide treatment was associated with significantly improved eGFR at week52 in addition to previously reported maintenance and normalization of serum and urine biochemistries. Further investigation of palopegteriparatide for the preservation of renal function in hypoparathyroidism is warranted. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04701203.

Pegunigalsidase alfa: a novel, pegylated recombinant alpha-galactosidase enzyme for the treatment of Fabry disease.

Fabry disease, a rare X-linked genetic disorder, results from pathogenic variants in GLA, leading to deficient lysosomal α-galactosidase A enzyme activity and multi-organ manifestations. Since 2001, enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), using agalsidase alfa or agalsidase beta, has been the mainstay treatment, albeit with limitations such as rapid clearance and immunogenicity. Pegunigalsidase alfa, a novel PEGylated recombinant alpha-galactosidase, offers promise as an alternative. Produced in plant cells, pegunigalsidase alfa exhibits enhanced stability, prolonged half-life, and reduced immunogenicity due to pegylation. A phase 1/2 clinical trial demonstrated Gb3 clearance from renal capillary endothelial cells and its 48-month extension study revealed notable outcomes in renal function preservation. Three phase 3 clinical trials (BRIDGE, BRIGHT, and BALANCE) have shown favorable efficacy and safety profile, although caution is warranted in interpreting the results of BRIDGE and BRIGHT which lacked control groups. In BALANCE, the pivotal phase 3 trial comparing pegunigalsidase alfa with agalsidase beta, an intention-to-treat analysis of the eGFR decline over 2years showed that the intergroup difference [95%confidence interval] in the median slope was -0.36mL/min/1.73 m2/year [-2.44; 1.73]. The confidence interval had a lower limit above the prespecified value of -3mL/min/1.73 m2/year and included zero. Despite challenges such as occasional hypersensitivity reactions and immune-complex-mediated glomerulonephritis, pegunigalsidase alfa approval by the European Medicines Agency and the Food and Drug Administration represents a significant addition to Fabry disease therapeutic landscape providing an option for patients in whom enzyme replacement therapy with current formulations is poorly tolerated or poorly effective.

Intraoperative image-guidance during robotic surgery: is there clinical evidence of enhanced patient outcomes?

To date, the benefit of image guidance during robot-assisted surgery (IGS) is an object of debate. The current study aims to address the quality of the contemporary body of literature concerning IGS in robotic surgery throughout different surgical specialties. A systematic review of all English-language articles on IGS, from January 2013 to March 2023, was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane library's Central, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Scopus databases. Comparative studies that tested performance of IGS vs control were included for the quantitative synthesis, which addressed outcomes analyzed in at least three studies: operative time, length of stay, blood loss, surgical margins, complications, number of nodal retrievals, metastatic nodes, ischemia time, and renal function loss. Bias-corrected ratio of means (ROM) and bias-corrected odds ratio (OR) compared continuous and dichotomous variables, respectively. Subgroup analyses according to guidance type (i.e., 3D virtual reality vs ultrasound vs near-infrared fluoresce) were performed. Twenty-nine studies, based on 11 surgical procedures of three specialties (general surgery, gynecology, urology), were included in the quantitative synthesis. IGS was associated with 12% reduction in length of stay (ROM 0.88; p = 0.03) and 13% reduction in blood loss (ROM 0.87; p = 0.03) but did not affect operative time (ROM 1.00; p = 0.9), or complications (OR 0.93; p = 0.4). IGS was associated with an estimated 44% increase in mean number of removed nodes (ROM 1.44; p < 0.001), and a significantly higher rate of metastatic nodal disease (OR 1.82; p < 0.001), as well as a significantly lower rate of positive surgical margins (OR 0.62; p < 0.001). In nephron sparing surgery, IGS significantly decreased renal function loss (ROM 0.37; p = 0.002). Robot-assisted surgery benefits from image guidance, especially in terms of pathologic outcomes, namely higher detection of metastatic nodes and lower surgical margins. Moreover, IGS enhances renal function preservation and lowers surgical blood loss.

Meta-analysis of clinical outcomes of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy and classical open partial nephrectomy.

Robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has emerged as a promising alternative to classical partial nephrectomy (CPN). This study aimed to compare the outcomes of RAPN and CPN for treating localized renal tumors through a meta-analysis of available literature. Chinese databases, such as CNKI, Chinese Science and Technology Periodicals Database (VIP), and Wanfang Full-text Database, were searched using Chinese search terms, and all published articles on PubMed and Web of Science were searched using English search terms. Articles on Localized Renal Tumors were included. RevMan5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. The funnel plots were drawn using Stata software to assess publication bias. This study aimed to identify the differences between robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy and classic partial nephrectomy in patients with localized renal tumors. In total, 67 articles with 17677 patients were included. The results demonstrate the advantages of RAPN over CPN for localized renal tumors. Compared to CPN and RAPN had significant differences in intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay duration, incidence of perioperative complications, and proportion of patients requiring blood transfusion. Regarding surgical outcomes, RAPN showed more favorable results regarding the incidence of positive resection margins, postoperative decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), postoperative local recurrence rate, and proportion of Trifecta achieved. However, there was no significant difference between RAPN and CPN regarding 5-year tumor-specific survival rates. The study suggests that robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy is a viable alternative to classic surgery for renal tumors. The strengths of this study are the use of a comprehensive search strategy and the inclusion of studies published in both English and Chinese. The limitations of this study are the small sample size and the need for long-term follow-up data. RAPN and CPN have similar overall survival outcomes for treating localized renal tumors. However, RAPN may offer advantages in terms of perioperative outcomes and preservation of renal function. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to identify the optimal surgical approach for individual patients.

Long-term Renal Preservation and Complication Profile With Ileal Ureter Creation

ObjectivesTo examine long-term ileal ureter replacement results at over 32 years at our institution. Long segment or proximal ureteral strictures pose a challenging reconstructive problem. Ureteroureterostomy, psoas hitch, boari flap, buccal ureteroplasty and autotransplantation are common reconstructive techniques. We show that ileal ureter remains a lasting option. MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing open ileal ureter creation from 1989-2021. Patient demographics, operative history, and complications were examined. All patients were followed for change in renal function. Demographic data was analyzed and cox proportional hazard models performed. Results158 patients were identified with median follow-up time of 40 months. 81% had a unilateral ileal ureter creation. 50% were female, median age was 53.3. 27% of patients had radiation-induced strictures. Pre-operatively, 56.3% of patients were CKD stage 1-2 and 43.7% were stage 3-5. Post-operatively, 54% were stage 1-2 and 46% were stage 3-5. Cox proportional hazard models demonstrated no significant correlation between worsening renal function and stricture cause, bilateral repair, complications, or sex. 77% had no 30-day complications. Clavien complications included grade 1(18), grade 2(4), grade 3(9), grade 4(5). Long-term complications included worsening renal function(3%), incisional hernia(8.2%), and small bowel obstruction(6.9%). 5(3.1%) patients ultimately required dialysis and 5(3.1%) patients developed metabolic acidosis. ConclusionIleal ureteral reconstruction is often a last resort for patients with complex ureteral injuries. Clinicians can be reassured by our long-term data that ileal ureteral creation is a safe treatment with good preservation of renal function and low risk of hemodialysis and metabolic acidosis.

Minimally invasive transperitoneal partial versus radical nephrectomy in obese patients: perioperative and long-term functional outcomes from a large perspective contemporary series (RECORd2 project).

The aim of this study is to evaluate the perioperative and long-term functional outcomes of laparoscopic (LPN) and robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in comparison to laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) in obese patients diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma. Clinical data of 4325 consecutive patients from The Italian REgistry of COnservative and Radical Surgery for cortical renal tumor Disease (RECORD 2 Project) were gathered. Only patients treated with transperitoneal LPN, RAPN, or LRN with Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2, clinical T1 renal tumor and preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥60 mL/min, were included. Perioperative, and long-term functional outcomes were examined. Overall, 388 patients were included, of these 123 (31.7%), 120 (30.9%) and 145 (37.4%) patients were treated with LRN, LPN, and RAPN, respectively. No significant difference was observed in preoperative characteristics. Overall, intra and postoperative complication rates were comparable among the groups. The LRN group had a significantly increased occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) compared to LPN and RAPN (40.6% vs. 15.3% vs. 7.6%, P=0.001). Laparoscopic RN showed a statistically significant higher renal function decline at 60-month follow-up assessment compared to LPN and RAPN. A significant renal function loss was recorded in 30.1% of patients treated with LRN compared to 16.7% and 10.3% of patients treated with LPN and RAPN (P=0.01). In obese patients, both LPN and RAPN showcased comparable complication rates and higher renal function preservation than LRN. These findings highlighted the potential benefits of minimally invasive PN over radical surgery in the context of obese individuals.

The potential for improved outcomes in the prevention and therapy of diabetic kidney disease through 'stacking' of drugs from different classes.

Aggressive therapy of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) can not only slow the progression of DKD to renal failure but, if utilized at an early enough stage of DKD, can also stabilize and/or reverse the decline in renal function. The currently recognized standard of therapy for DKD is blockade of the renin-angiotensin system with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). However, unless utilized at a very early stage, monotherapy with these drugs in DKD will only prevent or slow the progression of DKD and will neither stabilize nor reverse the progression of DKD to renal decompensation. Recently, the addition of a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor and/or a mineralocorticoid receptor blocker to ACE inhibitors or ARBs has been clearly shown to further decelerate the decline in renal function. The use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists shown promise in decelerating the progression of DKD. Other drugs that may aid in the deceleration the progression of DKD are dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, pentoxifylline, statins, and vasodilating beta blockers. Therefore, aggressive therapy with combinations of these drugs (stacking) should improve the preservation of renal function in DKD.

Intraoperative imaging techniques for robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy: where do we stand?

Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy is currently the gold standard treatment for localized selected cT1 and cT2 renal tumors. This narrative review aims to analyze the technologies employed in this procedure to increase the precision and accuracy of the surgeon, in order to obtain adequate oncological radicality, negative surgical margins, and good preservation of renal function. In this scenario, new technologies are developing, from three-dimensional reconstructions to artificial intelligence up to the new concept of metaverse.

SGLT2 inhibition, high-density lipoprotein, and kidney function: a mendelian randomization study.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibition is recognized for its evident renoprotective benefits in diabetic renal disease. Recent data suggest that SGLT2 inhibition also slows down kidney disease progression and reduces the risk of acute kidney injury, regardless of whether the patient has diabetes or not, but the mechanism behind these observed effects remains elusive. The objective of this study is to utilize a mendelian randomization (MR) methodology to comprehensively examine the influence of metabolites in circulation regarding the impact of SGLT2 inhibition on kidney function. We used a MR study to obtain associations between genetic proxies for SGLT2 inhibition and kidney function. We retrieved the most recent and comprehensive summary statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) that have been previously published and involved kidney function parameters such as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), and albuminuria. Additionally, we included blood metabolite data from 249 biomarkers in the UK Biobank for a more comprehensive analysis. We performed MR analyses to explore the causal relationships between SGLT2 inhibition and kidney function and two-step MR to discover potential mediating metabolites. The study found that a decrease in HbA1c levels by one standard deviation, which is genetically expected to result in SGLT2 inhibition, was linked to a decreased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (odds ratio [OR] = 0.55 [95% CI 0.35, 0.85], P = 0.007). Meanwhile, SGLT2 inhibition also protects eGFR (β = 0.05 [95% CI 0.03, 0.08], P = 2.45 × 10- 5) and decreased UACR (-0.18 [95% CI -0.33, -0.02], P = 0.025) and albuminuria (-1.07 [95% CI -1.58, -0.57], P = 3.60 × 10- 5). Furthermore, the study found that of the 249 metabolites present in the blood, only one metabolite, specifically the concentration of small high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles, was significantly correlated with both SGLT2 inhibition and kidney function. This metabolite was found to play a crucial role in mediating the improvement of renal function through the use of SGLT2 inhibition (β = 0.01 [95% CI 0.005, 0.018], P = 0.001), with a mediated proportion of 13.33% (95% CI [5.71%, 26.67%], P = 0.020). The findings of this investigation provide evidence in favor of a genetically anticipated biological linkage between the inhibition of SGLT2, the presence of circulating metabolites, and renal function. The findings demonstrate that the protective effect of SGLT2 inhibition on renal function is mostly mediated by HDL particle concentrations in circulating metabolites. These results offer significant theoretical support for both the preservation of renal function and a better comprehension of the mechanisms underlying SGLT2 inhibition.

Novel cardioprotective and nephroprotective combination in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease: perspectives of use

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus. It increases significantly cardiovascular risk and decreases the quality of life. CKD requires treatment, and the treatment paradigm for type 2 diabetes has shifted from a glucose-centric approach towards disease-modifying therapy. Attention is being paid to cardioprotective and nephroprotective effects. In patients with type 2 diabetes and CKD, drugs that affect the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, as well as sodium-glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors (iSGLT2) are widely used. Despite the proven positive effect of these drugs in preservation of renal functions, the pathogenesis of CKD contains links that have not yet been covered. In particular, the activity of fibrosis processes in the renal parenchyma is increased in patients with CKD due to high expression of mineracorticoid receptors. It may be a potential target for nephroprotective drugs. Thus, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MCRA) may influence the residual risk of CKD progression. In particular, the effectiveness of the non-steroid selective AMCR finerenone has been proven in a number of large clinical studies, which confirmed its nephroprotective potential. In this regard, studies aimed at studying the joint effect of known nephroprotective drugs, as well as their combined effect on cardiovascular risk, are highly needed.This review marks the main mechanisms of the combined action of iSGLT2 and finerenone. Discussion of the results of main clinical studies with combined use of standard nephroprotective therapy, SGLT2 and finerenone is also presented.

Safety and Efficacy of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in Solitary Functioning Kidneys: A Retrospective Cohort Study in an Asian Population.

Objective The aim of the study was to assess the safety of preserved renal function after standard percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in patients with a single functional kidney. The main parameters to focus on were serum creatinine levels and any associated complications. Materials and methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted in an Eastern population in a single center from 2016 through 2023 at The Kidney Centre Postgraduate Training Institute, Karachi, Pakistan. Results Out of the total 1,550 PCNL procedures performed on adult patients, 47 patients had a solitary functioning kidney with stones, which were evaluated. The stone clearance rate was 95.74% (45 patients), with a mean operative time of 85.96 minutes. Most patients, i.e., 33 (70.21%), had an infracostal approach, and single tract management was sufficient for 45 (95.74%) patients. The most common complication was transfusion, which was required in five (10.64%) patients. Mean preoperative hemoglobin dropped by 1.43mg/dL postoperatively, and mean serum creatinine decreased from 2.45mg/dL to 1.97mg/dL. Among the 24 (51.06%) analyzed stones, all were calcium oxalate. Conclusion In challenging situations such as a solitary kidney with a large stone, PCNL is the procedure of choice. However, the refined technique is of paramount importance. Overall, the use of PCNL in these unique conditions is safe and rewarding.

Comparison of Oncological and Functional Outcomes of Radical Versus Partial Nephrectomy for cT1b Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Two-Centre, Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND: It remains unclear which patients with cT1b renal cell carcinoma (RCC) benefit most from partial nephrectomy (PN) versus radical nephrectomy (RN) considering oncological outcomes and renal function. OBJECTIVE: To compare oncological and functional outcomes of RN with PN for cT1b RCC. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent RN or PN for cT1b between 2010 and 2022 (n = 241). Patients were grouped by RN or PN and matched by age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, BMI, PADUA score, RENAL score, ASA score, and preoperative kidney function (eGFR) using propensity score matching. The 10-year overall survival (OS), 10-year cancer-specific survival (CSS), and 10-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared. Change in eGFR from baseline to 5-year follow-up was assessed. RESULTS: After matching, 100 patients remained in each group for analysis. The 10-year OS, CSS, and RFS rates were similar between groups. For patients classified as low risk, the PN group displayed a higher recurrence rate compared to RN (7 vs. 0, p = 0.01). Patients who underwent RN had worse 1-year postoperative eGFR than PN (RN: 57 [44–65], PN: 73 [60–87], p &lt; 0.001). RN was more likely to induce new-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage ≥3b compared to PN (p &lt; 0.001). Complication rate after PN was significantly higher (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: 10-year survival rates were similar, despite more recurrences in the PN group. Our data shows that post-surgical renal function is superior for PN. Nevertheless, RN is a reliable treatment option when preservation of renal function is not a priority.