Understanding Nephrectomy

The kidneys are vital organs that filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. When a kidney is damaged beyond repair, removal may be necessary to prevent complications and maintain overall health. The remaining kidney usually functions well enough to compensate for the loss.

Types of Nephrectomy

1. Radical Nephrectomy (Complete Kidney Removal)

• Entire kidney, along with surrounding tissues, is removed.
  
  
• Used for kidney cancer, large tumors, or severe kidney damage.
  
  
• Performed using laparoscopic or open surgery, depending on the complexity.
  
  

2. Partial Nephrectomy (Kidney-Sparing Surgery)

• Only the diseased portion of the kidney is removed, preserving kidney function.
  
  
• Recommended for small tumors or localized kidney disease.
  
  
• Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques ensure minimal damage to healthy tissue.
  
  

3. Simple Nephrectomy

• The kidney is removed without touching nearby structures.
  
  
• Used in cases of kidney donation or non-cancerous kidney diseases.
  
  

4. Laparoscopic Nephrectomy

• A minimally invasive procedure with small incisions and a camera-assisted technique.
  
  
• Preferred for quicker recovery, less pain, and reduced complications.
  
  

Who Needs Nephrectomy?

• Kidney cancer (tumors that require complete or partial removal).
  
  
• Severe kidney infections or damage from chronic diseases.
  
  
• Obstructed or non-functioning kidney due to birth defects or trauma.
  
  
• Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) causing kidney enlargement and pain.
  
  
• Kidney donation for transplantation.
  
  

Advantages of Laparoscopic Nephrectomy

• Smaller incisions and minimal scarring.
  
  
• Reduced pain and quicker recovery.
  
  
• Lower risk of infection compared to open surgery.
  
  
• Shorter hospital stay (1-3 days instead of a week).
  
  
• Faster return to normal activities.
  
  

Step-by-Step Nephrectomy Procedure

1. Anesthesia Administration – General anesthesia is given for a pain-free procedure.
   
   
2. Laparoscopic or Open Incision – Small keyhole incisions (laparoscopic) or a single larger incision (open surgery).
   
   
3. Kidney Mobilization – The kidney is carefully separated from surrounding structures.
   
   
4. Blood Vessel Sealing – Blood supply to the kidney is cut off.
   
   
5. Kidney Removal – The kidney (or diseased part) is extracted.
   
   
6. Closure and Recovery – Incisions are closed, and the patient is monitored for post-op care.
   
   

Recovery After Nephrectomy

• Hospital stay of 1-3 days for laparoscopic surgery (longer for open surgery).
  
  
• Mild pain and discomfort are normal but manageable with medications.
  
  
• Drink plenty of fluids to support the remaining kidney.
  
  
• Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks.
  
  
• Follow-up tests ensure proper kidney function after surgery.
  
  

Potential Risks and Side Effects

• Temporary fatigue and mild pain.
  
  
• Infection or bleeding (rare with laparoscopic surgery).
  
  
• Changes in blood pressure due to kidney function adjustments.
  
  
• Compensatory growth of the remaining kidney to take over lost function.
  
  

Long-Term Outlook After Nephrectomy

Most patients live a normal, healthy life with one kidney. Regular check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper hydration are essential for optimal kidney function.

Get expert nephrectomy surgery in Agra with Dr. Shwetank Prakash, specializing in laparoscopic and robotic kidney removal.

Safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment. Book a consultation today!