Radical or Partial Nephrectomy
Introduction
Radical or partial nephrectomy is a form of surgical procedure that treats diseases of the kidneys, such as kidney cancer or severe damage to the kidney. The surgical intervention removes the whole kidney in a radical nephrectomy or the diseased part of the kidney in a partial nephrectomy. The purpose of this intervention is to retain kidney function by treating potentially fatal conditions.
What is Radical or Partial Nephrectomy?
Radical nephrectomy is a procedure where the entire kidney, along with surrounding tissues, lymph nodes, and adrenal glands, is removed. Partial nephrectomy involves the removal of only the diseased portion of the kidney, leaving the healthy part intact.
Both surgeries are carried out for kidney tumors, severe kidney injury, or any other severe disease in the kidney. Renal resection is required depending on the size, location, and severity of the disease of the kidney.
Why Radical or Partial Nephrectomy?
Radical or partial nephrectomy is performed for patients with the following diseases:
- Renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer)
- Severe trauma to the kidney
- Sizeable tumors in the kidney
- The kidney does not work because of chronic infection or injury
- Benign tumors with marked symptoms
Partial nephrectomy is preferred if the preservation of kidney function is essential, especially in patients with a single kidney or chronic kidney disease.
Types of Radical or Partial Nephrectomy
- Radical Nephrectomy: Complete removal of the diseased kidney along with the surrounding tissues and sometimes the nearby lymph nodes.
- Partial Nephrectomy (Nephron-Sparing Surgery): Removal of only the diseased portion of the kidney while leaving the rest.
- Open Nephrectomy: Done through a large incision on the abdomen or side.
- Laparoscopic Nephrectomy: It is a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and a camera.
- Robotic-Assisted Nephrectomy: Advanced laparoscopic surgery that uses robotic systems for enhanced precision and faster recovery.
Procedure Steps
- Preoperative Preparation: The patient undergoes imaging tests (CT scan or MRI) and blood tests. Fasting is required before surgery.
- Anesthesia: The medical team administers general anesthesia to ensure the patient remains unconscious during the procedure.
- Incision: The surgeon makes a large or small incision in the abdomen or side depending on the type.
- Removal: Surgeons remove the affected part or the whole kidney with surrounding tissues if necessary.
- Closure: The surgical team closes the incision with sutures or staples, and they may place a drain to remove excess fluid.
- Recovery: Nurses monitor the patient closely in the recovery room.
Benefits of Radical or Partial Nephrectomy
- Effective treatment for kidney cancer and tumors
- Kidney function preservation during partial nephrectomy
- Reduced chance of spreading the disease to other parts of the body
- Minimal invasiveness that helps patients recover in no time
- Better quality of life
Cost of Radical or Partial Nephrectomy
| Country | Pricing (USD) |
| India | $4,500 – $7,000 |
| USA | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| UK | $15,000- $25,000 |
| Thailand | $8,000 – $10,000 |
India is the most affordable treatment with quality preserved and that’s why it’s a very famous medical tourism destination. Top Hospitals in India for Kidney removal surgery.
The top hospitals in India for kidney surgery
- Metro Hospital, Faridabad (Does provide treatment)
- Apollo Hospitals, Delhi
- Fortis Escorts Hospital, Delhi
- Max Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi
- BLK-Max Hospital, Delhi
Risks and Complications
Just as any surgery, radical or partial nephrectomy does pose risks and complications that involve:
- Bleeding and infection
- Injury to other organs
- Blood clots
- Kidney function reducing
- Hernia at the place where the incision was done
- Urinary leakage is rare in the case of partial nephrectomy.
Recovery
Recovery following radical or partial nephrectomy depends on the type of surgery:
- Hospital Stay: 2 to 5 days for minimally invasive surgery; longer for open surgery.
- Activity Restriction: Avoid heavy lifting for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Follow-Up: Regular check-ups and imaging tests to monitor kidney function.
- Diet and Hydration: Drink plenty of water and maintain a kidney-friendly diet.
Most patients can return to normal activities within 6 to 8 weeks. Proper care and monitoring ensure a smooth recovery.
