What is Nephrectomy?

Nephrectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of a kidney. It is usually performed to treat kidney cancer, severe kidney damage, or non-functioning kidneys that may cause infections or high blood pressure.
Depending on the condition, the surgery may be done as a partial nephrectomy (removal of only the diseased portion) or a radical nephrectomy (removal of the entire kidney). Dr. Swapnil Gholap performs laparoscopic and minimally invasive nephrectomies, ensuring faster recovery and minimal scarring.

Causes & Conditions Requiring Nephrectomy

Nephrectomy may be recommended in cases such as:

• Kidney cancer or tumor

• Severe kidney infection (chronic pyelonephritis)

• Non-functioning or poorly functioning kidney

• Polycystic kidney disease

• Severe trauma or injury to the kidney

• Donor kidney removal for transplantation

Symptoms Indicating the Need for Nephrectomy

You may require evaluation for nephrectomy if you experience:

• Persistent flank or back pain

• Blood in urine (hematuria)

• Recurrent kidney infections

• High blood pressure linked to kidney disease

• Abnormal imaging results, such as tumors or cysts

When is Nephrectomy Needed?

Dr. Swapnil Gholap may suggest nephrectomy when:

• The kidney is severely damaged or non-functional

• Cancerous growths are detected in one kidney

• Other treatments or medications have failed

• The diseased kidney poses a risk to overall health

• Organ donation is being planned

The Nephrectomy Procedure

Depending on the patient’s condition, nephrectomy can be performed using one of the following techniques:

• Laparoscopic Nephrectomy – A minimally invasive approach using small incisions and a camera, resulting in quicker recovery.

• Robotic-Assisted Nephrectomy – Provides higher precision and minimal tissue damage.

• Open Nephrectomy – Performed through a larger incision, typically for complex or large tumors.

Procedure Steps:

1. Anesthesia – Administered to ensure complete comfort.

2. Surgical Access – Small or single incision is made (depending on approach).

3. Kidney Removal – Entire or part of the kidney is carefully removed.

4. Closure – The incision is closed with minimal scarring.

Recovery & Aftercare

• Hospital stay – Usually 2–5 days, depending on the type of surgery.

• Resume activities – Light activities can begin after a week; complete recovery may take 4–6 weeks.

• Hydration – Stay well-hydrated to support the remaining kidney.

• Diet – A balanced diet low in salt and protein may be advised.

• Follow-up – Regular checkups ensure the remaining kidney is functioning well.

FAQs About Nephrectomy

1. Is nephrectomy safe?
Yes. In expert hands, laparoscopic and robotic nephrectomies are highly safe with low complication rates.

2. Will I live a normal life with one kidney?
Yes. Most people live a healthy and normal life with a single kidney, provided they maintain good hydration and follow medical advice.

3. How painful is nephrectomy?
Pain is minimal with laparoscopic or robotic approaches and can be managed with medications.

4. How long will I need to stay in the hospital?
Hospital stay typically ranges between 2 to 5 days, depending on recovery speed and procedure type.

5. Can kidney cancer spread after nephrectomy?
If detected early and treated appropriately, the chances of recurrence are very low. Regular follow-ups and imaging help ensure long-term health.