This protocol applies to patients with renal cell carcinoma staged T1 — a tumour of 7 cm or less in greatest dimension that remains confined to the kidney — who are candidates for surgical intervention.
At this stage, the tumour is localised and has not extended beyond the renal capsule. Surgical candidacy is the pivotal factor determining the management pathway. Nephron-sparing approaches are preferred at this stage, with evidence supporting their role in preserving long-term kidney function and limiting downstream complications.
The recommended surgical strategy involves a nephron-sparing procedure. Multiple approaches are available depending on surgeon expertise — the full structured protocol specifies the indications, approach selection, and further detail.