What is it?
A minimally invasive surgery to remove one kidney (partial or complete) using laparoscopy. It is usually done for kidney diseases, tumors, or severe damage.
Types:
- Simple Nephrectomy – Removal of a non-functioning or diseased kidney
- Radical Nephrectomy – Removal of the entire kidney along with surrounding tissue, usually for kidney cancer
- Partial Nephrectomy – Only the diseased part of the kidney is removed
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Kidney tumors or cancer
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Severely damaged or infected kidney
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Non-functioning kidney (due to blockage, stones, or reflux)
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Donation of kidney (for transplant)
How is it done?
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3–4 small incisions are made
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A camera and instruments are inserted to free the kidney
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The kidney (or part of it) is removed carefully
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In some cases, a small enlargement of one incision is needed to take the kidney out
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Internal organs are preserved as much as possible
Recovery:
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Hospital stay: 2–3 days
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Return to light activity in 1–2 weeks
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Full recovery in 3–4 weeks
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Regular follow-ups to monitor the remaining kidney
