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Cytoreductive nephrectomy is a surgery to remove a kidney that has cancer, even when the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body. The goal is not to cure the cancer, but to remove as much of the tumour as possible. This can help with symptoms, slow down the cancer, or make other treatments work better.
Talk to your doctor to see if this is the right choice for you based on your health and how far the cancer has spread.
What’s the difference between a radical nephrectomy and a cytoreductive nephrectomy?
The main difference between radical nephrectomy and cytoreductive nephrectomy is the reason for the surgery and the type of cancer that is being treated.
Radical nephrectomy removes the kidney to try to cure the cancer, while the goal of cytoreductive nephrectomy is not to cure the cancer but to remove as much of it as possible. This can help other treatments work better when the cancer has already spread.
This chapter contains general information about cytoreductive 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