Evaluation of Renal Mass Biopsy Risk Stratification Algorithm for Robotic Partial Nephrectomy-Could a Biopsy Have Guided Management?

The theoretical application of a biopsy driven, risk stratified small renal mass management algorithm to a large robotic partial nephrectomy database suggests that about half of the patients might have avoided surgery. Despite the obvious limitations of a theoretical assumption of all patients receiving a perfect biopsy, the data support the emerging role of renal mass biopsies to guide management, particularly in high surgical risk patients.