Same day discharge after robot assisted partial nephrectomy

Abstract

PURPOSE: Partial nephrectomy (PN) is the standard treatment for small renal masses, offering effective cancer control while preserving renal function. The adoption of robotic assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has improved perioperative outcomes, and there is a growing interest in same-day discharge as a strategy to enhance recovery, reduce healthcare costs, and achieve more favourable postoperative outcomes. This review evaluates the current evidence surrounding SDD following RAPN, focusing on perioperative outcomes, patient selection, and evolving surgical practices. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search identified seven studies reporting outcomes of SDD RAPN, including a total of 485 patients. The findings suggest that SDD can be implemented safely, with complication, readmission, and emergency department visits similar to those observed in inpatient cohorts. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols and minimally invasive surgical techniques such as single-port and retroperitoneal approaches, play an important role in facilitating early discharge by reducing postoperative pain, enhancing recovery, and shortening hospital stays. RESULTS: Effective implementation of SDD relies on appropriate patient selection, surgeon experience, and institutional infrastructure. Future directions include refining discharge criteria, standardizing ERAS protocols, and incorporating postoperative tools such as telemedicine and wearable technologies. CONCLUSION: SDD after RAPN is both feasible and safe in selected patients. Broader adoption will depend on the development of standardized pathways, robust patient selection strategies, and additional research to validate outcomes across clinical settings.