Are we underutilizing minimally invasive approaches for upper tract urothelial carcinoma?

Abstract 

Endoscopy should be considered a first-line treatment for technically resectable low grade/stage upper tract urothelial carcinoma, even in the presence of a normal contralateral kidney. Endoscopy also should be considered an alternative to nephroureterectomy and end stage renal disease in patients with a solitary kidney or other imperative indications for nephron sparing, even in the presence of high-risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma. In both cases, however, endoscopic management is acceptable only if the patient and the urologist accept the rigorous surveillance regimens and the frequent need for repeated treatments.

Keywords: Upper tract, Urothelial carcinoma, Ureteroscopy, Percutaneous nephroscopy