Correlation between bilateral GFR in patients with localized renal cancer after partial nephrectomy

Objective To explore the relationship between the residual glomerular filtration rate (GFR) on the operated side and the GFR on the contralateral side following partial nephrectomy (PN) in patients with localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Materials and methods Following institutional review board approval, we conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical records from May 2018 to July 2023, involving 118 patients who underwent partial nephrectomy for unilateral localized kidney tumors (T1–T2). Glomerular filtration rate data were assessed using single photon emission computed tomography ( SPECT )/computed tomography imaging [using 9mTc-DTPA (diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid) renal dynamic imaging]. The independent determinants of postoperative renal function or renal function change were determined using linear regression analysis. In addition, the patient's demographic, clinical, and nephrometry characteristics were collected. Results A total of 58 patients were finally enrolled. The preoperative and postoperative GFR of bilateral kidneys showed a significant positive correlation. Postoperative GFR of the operated kidney was the independent predictor of GFR of contralateral kidney ( p = 0.001). Tumor diameter ( p = 0.036), age ( p = 0.005), and postoperative GFR of the contralateral kidney ( p = 0.001) were all independent predictors of postoperative GFR of the operated kidney. ΔGFR1 was the independent predictor of ΔGFR2. Results showed that a more pronounced postoperative decline in GFR on the operated side corresponded to a weaker compensatory capacity of the contralateral-side kidney. Conclusions During the course of the surgical procedure, the active endeavor to safeguard the renal function of the operated kidney side holds paramount importance, which yields positive outcomes for postoperative kidney function on the contralateral side, consequently contributing to the overall preservation of renal function.