Diagnostic Biopsy for Small Renal Tumours: A Survey of Current European Practice

Utilisation of renal tumour biopsy (RTB) for small renal masses in Europe is low, even though health care providers and patients report that biopsy results affect management choices. Timely access to biopsy services and studies demonstrating better outcomes after biopsy would facilitate RTB use in this setting. Renal tumour biopsy (RTB) can help in risk stratification of renal tumours with implications for management, but its utilisation varies. Our objective was to report current practice patterns, experiences, and perceptions of RTB and research gaps regarding RTB for small renal masses (SRMs). Two web-based surveys, one for health care providers (HCPs) and one for patients, were distributed via the European Association of Urology Young Academic Urologist Renal Cancer Working Group and the European Society of Residents in Urology in January 2023. The HCP survey received 210 responses (response rate 51%) and the patient survey 54 responses (response rate 59%). A minority of HCPs offer RTB to >50% of patients (14%), while 48% offer it in