When a kidney tumour is in a position that makes partial kidney removal unsafe, complete removal of the kidney may be the safest and most effective option. Where possible, smaller tumours are considered for partial nephrectomy first. Performed robotically or laparoscopically through small incisions, radical nephrectomy provides effective, well-established cancer control with the benefits of minimally invasive surgery — less pain, reduced blood loss, and a quicker return to normal life.
TREATMENTS
Radical Nephrectomy
When Is Radical Nephrectomy Recommended?
Not every kidney tumour is suitable for partial removal. Radical nephrectomy may be recommended when:
Partial removal would leave insufficient healthy kidney tissue to maintain function
The tumour involves the adrenal gland, renal vein, or surrounding structures
Removal is generally well tolerated when the other kidney is healthy — your overall kidney function is carefully assessed beforehand
Surgical Approaches
Robotic-assisted radical nephrectomy: Using the robotic system for enhanced precision and visualisation through small incisions. Beneficial for larger kidney tumours or if involving the vein.
Pure laparoscopic radical nephrectomy: A minimally invasive keyhole approach well-suited to straightforward cases.
Hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy: Occasionally used for very large tumours where additional manual control is beneficial.
Open nephrectomy: Used occasionally for tumours where a keyhole technique is not suitable.
Risks and Considerations
All procedures carry risks, which your surgeon will discuss with you in detail. These may include:
Bleeding, occasionally requiring transfusion
Injury to nearby organs (bowel, spleen, lung) — rare
A long-term reduction in overall kidney function, monitored with regular blood tests
Wound or chest infection, and blood clots
Recovery at a glance: Most patients stay 2–4 nights in hospital, return to light activities after 1 week, return to desk work around 2 weeks and regular activity by 4–6 weeks.
1
Pre-Operative Planning
Imaging is used to assess tumour extent, involvement of surrounding structures, and the function of the remaining kidney — including whether the adrenal gland or lymph nodes need to be removed.
2
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Performed through small incisions with robotic or laparoscopic assistance, avoiding the need for a large open incision and supporting a faster recovery.
3
Complete Cancer Removal
The kidney and surrounding tissue — potentially including lymph glands — are carefully removed to achieve complete cancer clearance.
4
Outcome Monitoring
Post-operative kidney function is assessed with blood tests and, where indicated, imaging to ensure early detection of any recurrence.
Our Approach
