Definition

In a radical nephrectomy, the whole kidney is removed. In a partial nephrectomy, only the diseased piece of the kidney is removed.

Reasons

Kidney removal may need to be done because of:

  • Birth defects
  • Injuries to the kidney
  • Infection
  • Kidney cancer
  • Kidney donation for a transplant

Risk

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Damage to nearby organs
  • Reactions to the anesthesia
  • Leakage of urine from the remaining kidney tissue, if only part of the kidney is removed

Long-term complications from decreased kidney function may include:

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications, such as:

Expect

Prior to procedure

Your blood type is checked. This is done in case a blood transfusion is needed before or after surgery.

Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.

Do not eat or drink after midnight before the procedure. You may need to take medication to cleanse your bowels.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia will be used. You will be asleep during the procedure.

Description of procedure

A tube called a catheter will be inserted into your bladder. An incision will be made in the abdomen or side of the abdomen. A rib may need to be removed to access the kidney. The tube from the kidney to the bladder is known as the ureter. If the whole kidney is being removed, the ureter and blood vessels will be cut before kidney will then be removed. If only part of the kidney is removed the ureter and blood vessels will be kept. The incision will be closed.

Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder

The Urinary System
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Laparoscopic surgery may also be used for a nephrectomy. Several keyhole incisions are made in the area. The abdominal cavity will be inflated with gas. A laparoscope, a long tool with a camera on the end, will be inserted through one of the holes. This allows the doctor to see inside you. Tools will be inserted through the other holes to perform the surgery. The same steps will be used to detach the kidney. A small incision will be made to remove the kidney.

How long will it take?

Between 2-4 hours

How much will it hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Average hospital stay

The typical hospital stay after a nephrectomy is 2-7 days. The exact length depends on the type of surgery. Your doctor may choose to keep you longer if complications occur.

Post-procedure care

At the hospital

IV fluids and pain medication will be given after surgery. Blood pressure, electrolytes, and fluid balance will all be carefully monitored to evaluate kidney function. A urinary catheter is often needed for a short time following surgery.

You will be encouraged to move around and be cautiously active as symptoms allow.

Preventing infection

During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

  • Washing their hands
  • Wearing gloves or masks
  • Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

  • Washing your hands often and reminding your healthcare providers to do the same
  • Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks
  • Not allowing others to touch your incision

At home

Avoid difficult exercise or activities for about 6 weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions.

If both kidneys are removed hemodialysis or kidney transplantation will be necessary.

Call

Contact your doctor if your recovery is not progressing as expected or you develop complications, such as:

  • Signs of infection, including fever or chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site
  • Persistent nausea and/or vomiting
  • Pain that you cannot control with the medications you were given
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Sudden weakness

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.