Available online 30 November 2022

We systematically reviewed the literature and summarized oncologic and safety outcomes for endoscopic management (EM) compared to radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). Studies comparing oncologic and/or safety results for EM versus RNU in patients with UTUC were included in our review. Overall, 13 studies met the criteria, and five studies were included in a meta-analysis using adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and bladder recurrence-free survival (BRFS). EM was associated similar OS (HR 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75–2.16), CSS (HR 1.37, 95% CI 0.99–1.91), and BRFS (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.61–1.55) to RNU, while 28–85% of patients treated with EM experienced upper tract recurrence across the studies. EM required more interventions with a higher cumulative risk of complications and lower likelihood of renal preservation. In summary, EM for low-grade UTUC had comparable survival outcomes to RNU at the cost of higher local recurrence rates resulting in a need for long-term rigorous surveillance and repeated interventions.

For selected cases of cancer in the upper urinary tract, surgical treatment via a telescope inserted through the urethra or the skin (endoscope) results in cancer control outcomes that are comparable to those after removal of the kidney and ureter. However, because of its higher rate of local recurrence, this approach requires repeated endoscopic treatment sessions. Patients should be well informed about these issues to help in shared decision-making.

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Endoscopic surgery

© 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of European Association of Urology.