Robotic nephrectomy is a procedure done to remove the entire kidney in patients diagnosed with kidney cancer, chronic urinary tract infections, or other kidney-related diseases, such as a non-functioning kidney.
Who Is A Candidate For Robotic Nephrectomy?
To determine if a patient could benefit from a robotic nephrectomy, the physician will consider the following factors:
- If the tumor is confined to the kidney
- Overall kidney health
- If the cancer has spread to nearby tissue
- How well the other kidney functions
- If the patient has more than one tumor
- If other diseases are impairing kidney function
- How much the tumor has spread throughout the kidney
The physician will consider the results of the following imaging tests when making a decision:
- Ultrasound
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computerized tomography (CT), which is a specialized X-ray technology that creates images of cross-sectional views of the soft tissues
The Role Of Kidneys
In the human body, kidneys are responsible for:
- Producing urine
- Maintaining proper mineral balance in the bloodstream
- Filtering waste and excess fluid and electrolytes from the blood
- Producing hormones that help regulate blood pressure and determine the number of red blood cells
What To Expect Before Surgery
Prior to surgery, staff will provide patients with instructions explaining how to prepare for surgery. Instructions will cover:
- Time to begin fasting
- When to arrive at the hospital
- Which non-prescription medication to avoid
- Which prescription medication to pause taking
The Surgery Process
During a robotic nephrectomy, the surgeon uses a computer console and robotic arms with surgical instruments attached to them. The surgeon sits behind a computer console near the operating table and directs the movement of the robotic arm and instruments. The safety and effectiveness of the procedure is greater, compared to traditional surgery, because robotic tools provide better imaging, require very small incisions, and increase the accuracy of each movement.
The Recovery Process
After the procedure, patients will have a urinary catheter in place for one day. The length of the hospital stay will depend on the type of nephrectomy performed and the patient’s overall health.
Patients will need to follow dietary and activity restrictions after leaving the hospital to ensure a full recovery. Light, everyday activities are allowed, but patients should avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for three to four weeks after surgery. Patients may independently resume activities of daily living soon after the procedure.
Follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor patients’ blood pressure, protein urine levels, and waste filtration. To support recovery, the physician will create a personalized treatment plan addressing any potential issues that may arise after surgery.