Assessment of the kidney functional state prior and after partial nephrectomy for a unilateral tumor using mathematical processing of computed tomography data with contrast enhancement

Background . According to the contemporary data available contrast-enhanced computed tomography can be used to assess total and split kidney function. The Urology Clinic of the I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University) utilizes mathematical processing of computed tomography data for the assessment of split kidney function. Aim . To evaluate the effect of main renal artery clamping (warm ischemia time) during partial nephrectomy for a unilateral tumor on the kidney function. Materials and methods . 33 patients of both sexes who underwent partial nephrectomy for unilateral kidney tumor were enrolled in the study. Prior to and 3–6 months after the surgery, 3D glomerular filtration rate (GFR), 3D perfusion, 3D volume of the renal parenchyma were evaluated by mathematical processing of computed tomography data with contrast enhancement. As well as that the dynamics of the total GFR (CKD-EPI equation) and total volume of the kidneys were assessed. Results . No significant changes were registered for both general functional renal parameters (creatinine level, total GFR, total volume of functioning renal parenchyma) and split 3D GFR. There were significant differences in 3D perfusion and kidney parenchyma volume prior and after partial nephrectomy. Conclusion . The results of the research highlight good reserve capacity the kidneys after partial nephrectomy with main renal artery clamping. The evidence that the non-operated kidney takes over the function of the resected kidney is based on the fact that there is an increase in its perfusion and volume of the kidney in the postoperative period. This state can also be regarded as a redistribution of functional loads between the kidneys, which is an adaptive mechanism in the postoperative period.