What to expect from kidney removal surgery for kidney cancer

A partial nephrectomy removes the tumour and a margin of nearby tissue when this is suitable. A radical nephrectomy removes the kidney and may include nearby tissues or lymph nodes depending on the scan findings and surgical plan. The operation may use keyhole or open surgery. The surgeon will discuss the approach, expected incision, possible drain or catheter, and how the specimen will be examined.

Afterwards, pain relief, fluids, urine output and blood tests are monitored. Early walking and breathing exercises help recovery. Tiredness, soreness, constipation and changes in appetite are common during healing. The remaining kidney usually carries more of the filtering work, so follow-up may include kidney-function checks and blood-pressure monitoring.

Arrange help with meals, transport and lifting during the early recovery period. Follow instructions about fasting, medicines and bathing before surgery. After discharge, keep the wound clean and follow the lifting and activity limits given by the surgical team. Take pain medicines as directed and prevent constipation with the recommended fluids, food or medicine.

Attend the wound check and pathology review. Tell clinicians about kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, allergies and all medicines, including anti-inflammatory pain medicines, because these can affect kidney care.

Contact the surgical team promptly for increasing wound redness, swelling, drainage, worsening pain, fever, repeated vomiting, difficulty passing urine or a marked drop in urine. Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, confusion or heavy bleeding. A sudden one-sided leg swelling or painful calf also needs urgent assessment.

Ask whether partial or radical nephrectomy is planned, how the operation will be performed, how long hospital monitoring may take, which activities are restricted, how kidney function will be followed and when pathology results will guide further treatment.