Minimally Invasive Surgery to Remove the Kidney
At Fore River Urology, we offer laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (often done robotically) for patients who need their entire kidney removed—most commonly due to kidney cancer. This procedure is performed using the latest minimally invasive robotic technology, allowing for smaller incisions, less pain, and a quicker recovery.
What Is a Radical Nephrectomy?
A radical nephrectomy is a surgery to remove an entire kidney. It may also involve removing surrounding tissue, nearby lymph nodes, or the adrenal gland in some cases.
This procedure is typically recommended for:
- Larger kidney tumors
- Tumors that are centrally located or near vital structures
- Cases where it’s not safe or feasible to remove only the tumor
While many kidney tumors can be treated with a partial nephrectomy (removing just the tumor and leaving the rest of the kidney), not all tumors are suitable for that approach. Your imaging, kidney function, and overall health help us determine the best option for you.
Why Robotic Surgery?
We perform radical nephrectomy using pure laparoscopy and with the da Vinci® robotic surgical system, a state-of-the-art platform that allows for highly precise, minimally invasive surgery.
Benefits include:
- Small incisions and less visible scarring
- Less pain after surgery
- Lower risk of bleeding
- Shorter recovery time
- Hospital stay of 0–1 day in most cases
How the Procedure Works
- Surgery is done through 3 to 5 small incisions in the abdomen using robotic instruments and a camera.
- Once the kidney is detached, it is removed through a slightly larger incision near the groin, which helps reduce postoperative pain compared to traditional approaches.
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
After Surgery: What to Expect
- Most patients go home the the next morning or even the same day
- You may feel sore for a few days but can usually return to normal activities within 2–4 weeks
- We provide guidance on lifting, activity, and follow-up imaging to monitor healing
Living with One Kidney
Most people do very well with one kidney. Before surgery, we assess your kidney function to ensure it’s safe to proceed, and we follow you closely after surgery to make sure your remaining kidney continues to work well over time.
Is Robotic Radical Nephrectomy Right for Me?
This procedure is typically used when a partial nephrectomy isn’t the best or safest option. Factors we consider include:
- Size and location of the tumor
- Health of both kidneys
- Your overall health and preferences
Our team will help you understand your options and recommend the treatment that’s safest and most effective for your specific situation.
Request a Consultation
If you’ve been diagnosed with a kidney tumor or told you may need a nephrectomy, we’re here to help. Our team at Fore River Urology offers advanced robotic surgery with compassionate, personalized care.
Call us at 207-518-6600
Or request an appointment online
