Partial Nephrectomy

Procedures we perform

ABOUT PARTIAL NEPHRECTOMY

What is a partial nephrectomy?

A partial nephrectomy is a procedure to remove a mass from the kidney, while leaving the majority of the normal part of the kidney behind.

Partial nephrectomy can be performed via an open incision or as a minimally invasive surgery using a laparoscopic (keyhole) or robotic surgical approach.

Why is a partial nephrectomy required?

Partial nephrectomy is usually performed to remove a mass in the kidney which is suspected to be a kidney cancer.

Partial nephrectomy aims to preserve as much healthy kidney tissue as possible to maintain overall kidney function.

Not all kidney masses can safely be treated with partial nephrectomy. Smaller kidney masses (under 4cm) and masses on the outer surface of the kidney are more likely to be suitable for partial nephrectomy than larger masses or masses in the centre of the kidney.

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is a disease caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the kidney. These abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour that can spread to other parts of the body.

PATIENT JOURNEY

What does a partial nephrectomy involve?

Partial nephrectomy is performed via a single 15-20cm incision, or with a laparoscopic (keyhole) or robotic surgical approach, through five to seven keyhole incisions in the abdomen.

The kidney is separated from surrounding structures such as the bowel, liver, spleen, muscle, and fat.

The blood supply to the kidney is temporarily clamped off. While the kidney’s blood supply is clamped off, the mass is cut out of the kidney and the defect is closed with stitches. The blood supply to the kidney is then restored.

Partial nephrectomy is performed under a general anaesthetic.

What is the recovery after a partial nephrectomy?

Partial nephrectomy usually requires a two to four night stay in hospital.

A catheter and an abdominal drain are inserted at the end of the procedure. They are usually removed prior to discharge from hospital.

You will have mild pain in your abdomen for several weeks after the operation. You will be given pain relief medication in hospital and at home to manage this.

You can usually return to most activities two to four weeks after a partial nephrectomy, but you need to avoid heavy lifting and straining for six to eight weeks.

Will any further treatment be required for kidney cancer?

The mass is sent for further testing after the operation. The results tell us how likely it is that the operation has cured the cancer.

In most cases no further treatment is requried after partial nephrectomy.

We monitor for signs of cancer recurrence after the operation with regular scans. If there is evidence of cancer recurrence, treatment including further surgery, immunotherapy or radiation therapy may be required.