Current Management Considerations for the Incidentally Detected Small Renal Mass

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Nephron-sparing treatments remain underutilized for the management of small renal masses despite a rise in incidentally detected renal cell carcinoma and a downward stage migration. METHODS: Historical publications representative of currently accepted paradigms were reviewed, and the results of a contemporary scientific literature search conducted in PubMed focusing on studies involving humans, published in English, and inclusive of clinical trials, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and practice guidelines are included. Results from contemporary retrospective trials augment the data when level I or II evidence is absent. RESULTS: Phase III clinical trial results substantiate the long-held tenet that partial nephrectomy is equivalent to radical nephrectomy with respect to safety and oncologic efficacy. Further, minimally invasive techniques using laparoscopy and robotic assistance to achieve partial nephrectomy appear equally effective to traditional open techniques. Although no prospective randomized studies are available, large retrospective studies support the notion that active surveillance and thermal ablative techniques are viable options for carefully selected patients. CONCLUSIONS: The management of small renal masses encompasses a host of therapeutic options, all of which must be considered and discussed with the individual patient.