Robotic removal of a kidney tumour — either the affected portion of the kidney (partial nephrectomy) or the entire kidney (radical nephrectomy) — through small keyhole incisions with minimal impact on your recovery.
Partial nephrectomy removes only the tumour and a small margin of healthy tissue, leaving the rest of the kidney intact. This is the preferred approach for smaller tumours (generally under 4 cm) and preserves kidney function — which has long-term benefits for heart health and overall wellbeing. Partial nephrectomy is preferred wherever it is safe for cancer control.
Radical nephrectomy removes the entire kidney, the surrounding fatty tissue (Gerota’s fascia), and sometimes the adrenal gland. This is recommended for larger or more complex tumours, or where a partial approach is not safe.
Both are performed through 5 small keyhole incisions using a robotic surgical system. The kidney or tumour is then placed in a bag and removed through a small extension of one of the ports.
02
Before your procedure
Pre-operative assessment will be arranged, including blood tests, kidney function tests, and imaging review.
Fast for six hours before surgery. Water is permitted up to two hours prior.
Blood-thinning medications must be stopped as directed by the team.
Stopping smoking before surgery significantly reduces the risk of complications and improves healing.
Arrange for someone to take you home and stay with you for the first night after discharge.
03
Risks and benefits
Treatment with curative intent for early cancer
Surgery is the standard treatment for localised renal cell cancer and is associated with good long-term survival in suitable patients.
Kidney preservation
Partial nephrectomy preserves kidney function — reducing long-term risk of kidney failure and cardiovascular disease.
Quicker recovery
Most patients go home within 1–2 nights and return to normal activities within 3–4 weeks.
Common
Pain and fatigue
Post-operative pain around the incision sites and flank is expected and managed with prescribed pain relief. Fatigue is normal and typically resolves within a few weeks.
Uncommon
Bleeding
Blood transfusion is required in a small number of cases. In partial nephrectomy, delayed bleeding from the kidney can occasionally occur, usually managed without repeat surgery.
Uncommon
Urine leak (partial nephrectomy)
A small amount of urine can occasionally leak from the repaired kidney. This usually settles with conservative management and catheter drainage.
Uncommon
Reduced kidney function
After radical nephrectomy, the remaining kidney compensates well in most patients. Regular monitoring of kidney function is part of your long-term follow-up.
Rare
Injury to adjacent organs
Injury to surrounding structures such as the spleen, bowel, or blood vessels is rare but possible. Conversion to open surgery may occasionally be required.
04
Aftercare and recovery
1
Pain management
Prescribed pain relief will be provided on discharge. Most patients need only regular paracetamol and an anti-inflammatory within a few days.
2
Activity
Light walking from day one of recovery. Avoid driving for 2 weeks and strenuous exercise or lifting for 4–6 weeks. Return to desk work is usually possible within 2–3 weeks.
3
Diet and hydration
Stay well hydrated. A healthy diet supports recovery. No specific dietary restrictions are required after nephrectomy, though long-term kidney health is supported by good hydration and avoiding high-salt diets.
4
Pathology and follow-up
Results are discussed at your post-operative appointment. Long-term oncological surveillance includes CT scans and blood tests at regular intervals depending on the tumour stage.
Is partial or radical nephrectomy more appropriate for my tumour?
What is the likelihood my tumour is cancerous?
How will removing a kidney affect my long-term health?
Is active surveillance an option for my size of tumour?
What follow-up will I need after surgery?
What is the risk of the cancer spreading?
Disclaimer
This information is for general education and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
Content adapted from the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) and the American Urological Association (AUA) patient information resources.