Nephrometry scores in renal cancer

Abstract

Several independent tools and measurements can be used to assess the same endpoint. This is the case for renal tumors, for which different nephrometry scores (NSs) based on preoperative imaging are currently available. These systems provide objective information with regard to surgical complexity, risk of blood loss, ischemia time, and perioperative complications that can assist physicians in the decision-making process and in planning the most appropriate surgical approach. In this review article, the most widely used preoperative NSs are being mentioned; their parameters are analyzed and their usefulness and reliability in everyday clinical and surgical practice are being compared.