What Is a Nephrectomy Surgery?
Nephrectomy surgery is a medical procedure to remove all or part of a kidney. It is usually performed when a kidney is damaged, diseased, or affected by cancer. The surgery helps prevent further health complications and improve overall kidney function. This procedure can also help address specific nephrectomy indications for patients.
Nephrectomy can be done using traditional open surgery or minimally invasive techniques, depending on the patient's condition. Recovery is generally smooth with proper care, and patients can return to normal activities after a few weeks. Understanding possible nephrectomy complications is important for safe recovery.
Types of Nephrectomy Surgery
There are five main types of nephrectomy:
- Partial Nephrectomy: This procedure, also called kidney-sparing or partial nephron-sparing surgery, removes only the diseased or damaged part of the kidney while preserving healthy tissue. It's usually preferred for small or localized tumors, helping maintain better kidney function.
- Simple Nephrectomy: In this procedure, the entire kidney is removed, leaving the surrounding tissues intact. Simple nephrectomy is often done when the kidney is severely damaged due to infection, trauma, or non-cancerous conditions.
- Radical Nephrectomy: This is the most extensive type of nephrectomy, removing the entire kidney, the adjacent adrenal gland, and sometimes nearby lymph nodes. It's often used for treating kidney cancer that has spread or for large tumors that cannot be managed with partial nephrectomy.
- Laparoscopic Nephrectomy: This is a minimally invasive surgery. The surgeon makes small cuts & uses a camera and special tools to remove the kidney. It typically leads to faster recovery and less pain.
- Robotic-Assisted Nephrectomy: Similar to laparoscopic nephrectomy, but the surgery is done with the help of a robotic system controlled by the surgeon. It allows for more precision during the surgery.
2-4 Hours
Surgery Duration
General Anesthesia
Anesthesia Used
3-6 Months
Full Recovery Timeline
When is Nephrectomy Surgery Recommended?
Nephrectomy, or kidney removal surgery, is advised when certain kidney conditions affect health or function. Here are the main reasons it may be recommended:
- Severely Damaged or Non-Functional Kidney: If a kidney is permanently damaged due to injury, infection, or chronic disease, removing it can prevent further complications.
- Kidney Cancer or Tumors: When cancer or tumors affect a kidney, nephrectomy helps remove the affected organ and reduce the risk of disease spreading.
- Severe Kidney Infection or Obstruction: In cases where infections or blockages cannot be treated with medications, surgery may be needed to protect overall kidney function.
- Donor Kidney for Transplant: Healthy individuals may undergo nephrectomy to donate a kidney to someone in need of a transplant.
Preparing for Nephrectomy Surgery Procedure
Proper preparation for Nephrectomy surgery helps ensure a safe procedure and smooth recovery.
Medical Evaluation & Pre-Op Visit
- Review your complete medical history, current medications, and overall health.
- Complete routine tests such as blood work, urine tests, imaging scans, or ECG to confirm readiness for surgery.
- Keep all test results ready at least a week before surgery to help your surgeon finalize the plan.
Health Habits & Lifestyle Adjustments
- Stop smoking at least 4-6 weeks before surgery, as it can delay healing and increase complications.
- Avoid alcohol and medications that may affect bleeding, such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and certain supplements, for 2 weeks prior.
- Eat a nutritious, balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support recovery.
Prepare Your Home and Support System
- Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital and stay with you for the first 24-48 hours.
- Set up a recovery area with water, medications, comfortable clothing, and easy access to essentials.
- Prepare meals in advance to ensure you have nourishing food while mobility is limited.
The Day Before & Day of Surgery
- Follow fasting instructions, usually no food or drink after midnight, to ensure safe anesthesia.
- Follow surgeon's guidance for bathing and antiseptic care; avoid lotions, perfumes, and nail polish.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing and avoid jewellery or makeup on the day of surgery.
What Happens During Nephrectomy Surgery?
Nephrectomy surgery involves removing all or part of a kidney to treat disease, injury, or cancer. The procedure is safe, precise, and designed to support faster recovery and improved kidney health.
- Preparation & Anesthesia: On the day of surgery, you'll meet your surgical team to review the procedure. General anesthesia is administered so you are asleep and comfortable throughout the operation.
- Incision & Accessing the Kidney: The surgeon makes an incision, either through the abdomen, side, or back, depending on the approach (open or laparoscopic). This allows access to the kidney while protecting surrounding tissues.
- Removal of the Kidney: The affected kidney is carefully separated from surrounding blood vessels and ureter. In partial nephrectomy, only the diseased portion is removed; in radical nephrectomy, the entire kidney is taken out.
- Closure of Incisions: Once the kidney is removed, the surgeon closes the incision with sutures or staples. Drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup. The area is then covered with sterile dressings.
- Optional Laparoscopic Techniques: In minimally invasive nephrectomy, small keyhole incisions and specialized instruments are used, reducing recovery time and minimizing scarring.
- Recovery Start: You'll be monitored in a recovery area. Early movement and walking are encouraged to improve circulation, and follow-up care ensures proper healing and kidney function.
Who do the Nephrectomy Procedure?
Nephrectomy surgery is performed by a urologist or a kidney surgeon who specializes in kidney and urinary system procedures. These surgeons are trained to handle both open and minimally invasive nephrectomy techniques, ensuring safe and effective treatment.
Your care team may also include anesthesiologists, nurses, and support staff who monitor your health before, during and after the surgery.
Recovery After Nephrectomy Surgery Procedure
Recovery after nephrectomy surgery is a gradual process, allowing the body to heal safely. With proper care, patients can regain strength, resume daily activities, and support long-term kidney health.
First Few Days After Surgery
In the initial days, expect soreness, mild swelling, and fatigue around the surgical area. These are normal as your body begins to heal.
Gentle walking, even short laps around the room, helps improve circulation and lowers the risk of blood clots.
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity, and follow your doctor's advice for rest and positioning.
Weeks 2 to 4
During this period, discomfort usually lessens, and you'll feel more mobile.
You can gradually resume light daily activities, such as walking, simple household tasks, and desk work, with your doctor's approval.
Follow-up visits are important to monitor healing and remove any drains or sutures if placed.
Weeks 5 to 6
By weeks 5 to 6, many patients can return to work, especially if it isn't physically demanding.
Exercise should still be limited to light activity, avoiding strenuous or core-focused movements until your surgeon clears you.
3 to 6 Months Post-Surgery
Complete recovery takes a few months, with energy levels improving and surgical sites fully healing.
Long-term results include improved kidney function and overall health stability, depending on your individual condition.
Benefits of Nephrectomy Surgery
Nephrectomy surgery removes a damaged or diseased kidney to improve overall health. It helps prevent complications, supports remaining kidney function, and can aid in treating kidney cancer.
- Removes diseased or damaged kidney: Nephrectomy eliminates a kidney that is severely diseased, non-functional, or affected by cancer, preventing further health complications.
- Improves overall kidney function: Removing a damaged kidney allows the remaining kidney to work more efficiently, supporting better overall kidney health.
- Reduces risk of infection or complications: In cases of chronic infection, obstruction, or kidney stones, nephrectomy helps prevent repeated infections and serious complications.
- Supports treatment of kidney cancer: For patients with kidney tumors, nephrectomy can prevent cancer from spreading, improving long-term health outcomes.
Risks of Nephrectomy Surgery
While nephrectomy surgery can be life-saving, it also carries certain risks, as with any major procedure. Being aware of these helps in better preparation.
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Risks of blood clots (DVT)
- Injury to nearby organs
- Hernia at incision site
- Fluid build-up (seroma or hematoma)
- Anesthesia risks
- Reduced kidney function
What is the cost of a Nephrectomy in India?
The cost of Nephrectomy Surgery typically depends on the type of procedure, the surgeon's experience, and the hospital facilities. The estimated cost ranges from Rs. 250000 to over Rs. 500000.
040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
