Radical nephrectomy for locally-advanced kidney cancer

A radical nephrectomy is a surgery where the whole kidney, along with some of the surrounding tissue, is removed. The goal is to remove all the cancer to stop it from spreading. It’s usually done for kidney cancers that haven’t spread but have grown into nearby tissue. It’s also used for stage 1 kidney cancer when a partial nephrectomy isn’t possible. 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, where the doctor makes a cut in the abdomen to directly reach the kidney and tumour.
• The other option is laparoscopic surgery, where small cuts are made, and the doctor uses thin tube-like instruments to see inside the body and remove the tumour. 

Sometimes, a surgical robot is used to assist with laparoscopic surgery.

Both methods work well. Laparoscopic surgery usually helps you recover faster, but it's more complicated and needs a doctor who is experienced with it.

• Open surgery
  • You’ll be given general anaesthesia, so you’ll be asleep and pain-free during the 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, so you’ll be asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
  • The doctor makes a larger cut in your side or abdomen.
  • The doctor uses a small camera and special tools to help remove the kidney.
  • The kidney is taken out through one of the small openings.
  • 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: May 2025