International Expert Consensus on Metric-based Characterization of Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy

Background: Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) training usually takes place in vivo, and methods vary across countries/institutions. No common system exists to objectively assess trainee ability to perform RAPN at predetermined performance levels prior to in vivo practice. The identification of objective performance metrics for RAPN training is a crucial starting point to improve training and surgical outcomes. Objective: We sought to identify objective performance metrics that best characterize a reference approach to RAPN, and obtain face and content validity from procedure experts through a modified Delphi meeting.