In the intermediate term (1-4 years), the oncologic effectiveness of RFA appears comparable to that of traditional treatments offered for small renal masses. Further studies of larger numbers of patients with longer follow-up are needed.

Laparoscopic and robotic pyeloplasty are highly effective in treating ureteropelvic junction obstruction. There was no difference in their abilities to render the patient free from secondary procedures on multivariate analysis. Previous endopyelotomy and intraoperative crossing vessels reduced freedom from secondary procedures.

In this study magnified bone windows were the most accurate method of stone measurements in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, we recommend the routine use of magnified bone windows for computerized tomography measurement of stones. In vitro the measurement error in calcium oxalate stones was greater than that in uric acid stones, suggesting that stone composition may be responsible for measurement inaccuracies.

No abstract

This study suggests a relationship between training in percutaneous renal access and subsequent use of percutaneous renal procedures in the urologist's practice. Emphasis should be placed on providing continuing education opportunities to maintain competency in this important technique.