Reliable information on urology - Patient Information
Search
I have metastatic kidney cancer

Partial nephrectomy for metastatic kidney cancer

Partial nephrectomy is a surgery where only the part of the kidney with cancer is removed, leaving the healthy part of the kidney intact. This procedure helps preserve kidney function.

Related topics for further reading

Living with kidney cancerOther resources on kidney cancer
In partial nephrectomy the tumour is removed while keeping as much of the healthy kidney as possible.
Enlarge image
A small tube called a double-J stent is placed from the kidney, through the ureter and into the bladder, to make sure urine can flow properly.
Enlarge image
In laparoscopic surgery, the doctor uses small cuts in the abdomen to insert the surgical instruments.
Enlarge image

Sometimes, a surgical robot is used to assist with laparoscopic surgery. Watch this video to see what a robot-assisted partial nephrectomy looks like.

This chapter contains general information about partial 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

Other possible treatments

Cytoreductive nephrectomy for kidney cancerPartial nephrectomy for metastatic kidney cancerImmunotherapy for kidney cancerAntiangiogenic therapy for kidney cancerRadiotherapy for kidney cancer

Where am I in my journey?

I have localised kidney cancerI have locally-advanced kidney cancerI have metastatic kidney cancerLiving with kidney cancer

Condition

Kidney cancerAll conditions
Reliable information on urology - Patient Information
European Association of UrologyEAU Patient OfficePrivacy policyDisclaimerContact Us