Feasibility, safety and efficacy of argon beam coagulation in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy for solid renal masses ≤ 7 cm in size

One of the most important steps of the partial nephrectomy (PN) is hemostatic control of tumor bed which also effects the warm ischemia time (WIT). Argon beam coagulation (ABC) for decades is a well-known method for surface controls during major open surgical sites. This study aimed to compare peri- and postoperative relevant parameters in patients with ABC or internal renorrhaphy (IR) during robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN). One hundred seventy patients with ≤ 7 cm tumors, who underwent RAPN at our institutions, were included in this retrospective study. Tumor bed was controlled by either IR or by ABC after closing isolated overt collecting system defects. No additional IR was performed in patients with ABC. Estimated blood loss (EBL), WIT, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) change, on- vs. off-clamp procedure as well as Clavien-Dindo > 2 complications in both groups were compared. Eighty-seven (51.1%) patients had ABC and 83 (48.9%) had IR as their tumor bed control method. Tumor size, side and RENAL nephrometry score in both groups were similar. Mean warm ischemia time (WIT) was 20.8 min in ABC group and 23.8 min in IR group (p = 0.03). In 4-7 cm tumors, WIT was 19.9 min in ABC group while 26.6 min in IR group (p = 0.026). eGFR change from baseline and EBL favored ABC in entire cohort as well as in 4-7 cm tumors with statistical significance. There were more off-clamp procedures with ABC in ≤ 4 cm tumors. No ABC specific complications were observed. Within 2 years of follow-up, no patient developed recurrences. The control of the tumor base with ABC during RAPN shortens the warm ischemia times significantly compared to IR. Besides, ABC had better EBL and GFR changes outcomes. With close monitoring of intra-abdominal pressure and frequent venting, disturbing complications of ABC could completely be avoided. ABC was found to be feasible, safe and effective during RAPN.