REVIEW OF 117 PARTIAL NEPHRECTOMIES

In this review of 117 consecutive partial nephrectomies calculi associated with infection was the most common indication for the operation. Other indications included congenital anomalies, trauma, arteriovenous malformations and tumor. Partial nephrectomy has been shown to be a relatively safe procedure, with a mortality rate of 1.7 percent. However, considerable morbidity occurred when stone and/or infection persisted postoperatively. The authors herein emphasize that total intraoperative removal of calcareous debris, appropriate treatment of associated infection and avoidance of nephrostomy tubes are important to a successful postoperative result. Partial nephrectomy as a method to remove stones confined to or originating in a diseased calix appears unsurpassed.