Urologic Oncology: Seminars and Original Investigations
Volume 27, Issue 1 , Pages 75-80, January 2009

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

  • J. Stuart Wolf Jr., M.D.

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationCorresponding author. Tel.: +1-734-764-8397; fax: +1-734-936-9127

Division of Minimally Invasive Urology, Department of Urology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

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

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PII: S1078-1439(08)00080-X

doi:10.1016/j.urolonc.2008.04.006

Urologic Oncology: Seminars and Original Investigations
Volume 27, Issue 1 , Pages 75-80, January 2009