Robotic assisted partial nephrectomy in the treatment of small renal masses: a literature review

Background and Objective: The diagnosis of patients with small renal masses (SRMs) has increased, as has the use of robotic surgery in their treatment. Our objective is to review the role of robotic partial nephrectomy (PN) in the management of SRM. Methods: Articles were selected from 2005–2022 on PubMed and MEDLINE databases using the keywords: “robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy”, “laparoscopic partial nephrectomy” and “small renal masses”. Key Content and Findings: Existing researches revealed that relative to open partial nephrectomy (OPN), robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has less significant (Clavien-Dindo ≥2) complications: 8% vs. 25% (P