Partial nephrectomy for stone disease.

The results of 227 partial nephrectomies for stone were reviewed. Radiologically visible calcification remaining in the kidney at the end of the operation increased the risk of further stone formation. Ipsilateral and contralateral true recurrence rates after partial nephrectomy were the same, and increased with time up to 34% at 20 years. Ipsilateral recurrence rates after partial nephrectomy were half those found in a similar study of nephrolithotomy, pyelolithotomy and ureterolithotomy. Anatomical factors are important in stone formation, and partial nephrectomy is of value in the management of renal stones.