Does a urologist perform kidney removal surgery?

A urologist is a surgeon who treats the kidneys and urinary tract. Depending on the reason for surgery, nephrectomy may remove part of a kidney or the whole kidney. The operative plan also depends on the position and extent of the abnormal area, the function of both kidneys, previous operations, and the person's general health.

Cancer care may involve a wider team. Radiologists help interpret scans, pathologists examine tissue, anaesthetists manage care around the operation, and oncology specialists may advise on other treatment. The urologist coordinates the surgical decision and explains the planned approach.

Bring your scan reports, laboratory results, medication list, allergy information, and details of earlier abdominal or urinary surgery. Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, kidney problems, heart or lung conditions, and any recent infection. Do not stop prescribed medicine unless the treating team gives you specific instructions.

Clarify whether partial or complete removal is proposed, why that option fits your situation, and how kidney function will be checked. You should also receive practical instructions about fasting, admission, pain control, movement after surgery, wound care, and follow-up results.

Before a planned operation, contact the clinical team promptly if you develop fever, a new infection, worsening flank pain, difficulty passing urine, or visible blood in the urine. These changes may affect assessment or the timing of surgery.

After nephrectomy, seek urgent medical care for trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, inability to pass urine, rapidly worsening pain, persistent vomiting, or a wound that becomes increasingly red, swollen, hot, or drains pus. Follow the discharge team's contact instructions for concerns that feel less severe but are not settling.

Ask which portion of the kidney is expected to be removed, whether nearby tissue may need assessment, and what could change the plan during surgery. Discuss how the procedure may affect overall kidney function, which medicines need adjustment, how pathology findings will be communicated, and whom to contact after discharge.