Robotic partial nephrectomy is a surgical procedure done to remove a portion of the kidney and treat cancer, while preserving as much healthy kidney tissue as possible.
Who Is A Candidate For Robotic Partial Nephrectomy?
Patients with a small kidney tumor may be good candidates for a robotic partial nephrectomy. The procedure may also be done when it is feasible to leave the healthy, non-cancerous portion of the kidney intact. The benefits of preserving kidney function include decreased risk of high blood pressure, longer life expectancy, and reduced risk of kidney failure and need for dialysis.
Due to advancements in surgical procedures, robotic partial nephrectomy has become the preferred surgical treatment option for patients with kidney tumors less than four centimeters in size. Tumors between four and seven centimeters in size may be treated with robotic partial nephrectomy if they are located in certain areas.
How To Prepare For Surgery
Five to seven days prior to surgery, patients will need to pause taking blood thinners. During a consultation with the surgeon and anesthesiologist, the patient will need to share a list of any medication and supplements they may be taking.
Because tobacco products impair the body’s natural ability to heal after surgery, patients will need to stop smoking and using other tobacco products before surgery.
Beginning at midnight the night before surgery, patients will need to refrain from eating or drinking. The surgical team will provide more detailed instructions for the patient.
The Surgery Process
The patient will be put under general anesthesia and the surgeon will begin by making small incisions in the abdomen where the camera and surgical equipment will be inserted. The surgeon will then use carbon dioxide gas to inflate the abdominal cavity. The extra space is necessary to insert and maneuver the surgical equipment and the camera across the treatment area.
To allow kidney dissection, the surgeon will stop blood flow to the cancerous kidney. The surgeon will remove the cancerous portion from surrounding tissue and suture back the remaining section of the kidney.
What To Expect During Recovery
After the procedure, patients will undergo blood tests and imaging to ensure a healthy recovery. The procedure is far less invasive and disruptive than open surgery. Post-surgical pain can often be managed without the use of narcotic pain medications.
After surgery, patients will be instructed to walk for brief periods of time to support healing, blood flow, and normal functioning. Careful walking will also help reduce the risk of complications.