How effective is kidney removal surgery for kidney cancer?

A partial nephrectomy removes the tumour while preserving part of the kidney when that is technically suitable. A radical nephrectomy removes the whole kidney and may include nearby tissue or lymph nodes when required. Surgery can remove visible disease in the kidney, but it cannot by itself treat cancer that has spread elsewhere. Scans and laboratory tests help the team weigh tumour anatomy against kidney health.

Ask whether partial or radical surgery is being considered and how the choice relates to tumour position. Share your history of high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney problems and regular medicines. After surgery, attend kidney-function checks and follow advice about activity, wound care and fluids. One healthy kidney can often support the body, but monitoring helps identify changes early.

Seek urgent advice for fever, increasing wound redness, persistent vomiting, inability to pass urine, worsening flank pain or blood in the urine that is increasing. Emergency care is needed for severe breathlessness, fainting, chest pain or heavy bleeding. Do not wait for a routine appointment if a new symptom is rapidly worsening.

Can the tumour be removed while preserving kidney tissue? What will the scans show about spread? How will kidney function be protected? What symptoms should prompt a same-day call, and what follow-up tests will I need?