Radical nephrectomy for localised kidney cancer

The goal is to remove all the cancer to stop it from spreading. It’s usually done when the  cancer has not spread to distant organs but has grown near the kidney. It may also be  used for Stage 1 kidney cancer when partial nephrectomy is not possible. It is the standard treatment for larger tumours or when partial nephrectomy is not technically possible. Radical nephrectomy is an effective treatment for localised kidney cancer and helps prevent the disease from spreading. Most people can live with just one healthy kidney without serious problems. 

There are two ways to do a radical nephrectomy.

• One option is open surgery: the doctor makes a cut in the abdomen to directly reach the kidney and tumour.
• The other option is laparoscopic surgery: the doctor makes small cuts and uses a camera and thin tools to remove the tumour. Sometimes, a surgical robot helps the surgeon. This is called robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery. It is similar to traditional laparoscopy but uses robotic arms controlled by the surgeon.

Both methods work well. People usually recover faster after laparoscopic surgery. However, it is more complex and needs a doctor who is experienced with it.

• Open surgery
  • You’ll be given general anaesthesia (medicine to make you sleep), so you will be asleep and not feel pain during surgery.
  • The doctor makes a cut in your side or abdomen.
  • The kidney is carefully removed along with surrounding tissue, and sometimes the adrenal gland and nearby lymph nodes.
• Laparoscopic surgery
  • You’ll be given general anaesthesia (medicine to make you sleep), so you will be asleep and not feel pain during surgery.
  • The doctor makes a cut in your side or abdomen.
  • The doctor uses a small camera and special tools to help remove the kidney.
  • One of the small cuts is made slightly larger to allow the kidney to be removed from the body.
  • This way of doing surgery usually helps you heal faster and feel less pain.

This chapter contains general information about radical nephrectomy for kidney cancer. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

Last updated: September 2025

Reviewed by: 

• Ms. Claudia Ungarelli (Patient Office EPAG)
• Dr. Gaëlle Margue (YAU Working Group on Renal Cell Carcinoma)