Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys. The most common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for about 85% of all kidney cancer cases.
Treatment options for kidney cancer depend on the size, location, and stage of the tumour, as well as the overall health of the patient. One of the most effective treatments for kidney tumours is partial nephrectomy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes the tumour while preserving the healthy portion of the kidney.
What is Partial Nephrectomy?
Partial nephrectomy, also known as kidney-sparing surgery, is a surgical procedure that involves removing the tumour and a small margin of healthy tissue surrounding it, while leaving the remaining healthy kidney tissue intact.
This approach is in contrast to radical nephrectomy, which involves removing the entire kidney. Partial nephrectomy is usually performed laparoscopically or robotically, using small incisions and a camera to visualize the kidney and tumour.
Benefits of Partial Nephrectomy
- Preservation of kidney function: By preserving the healthy portion of the kidney, partial nephrectomy helps to maintain kidney function and reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease.
- Reduced risk of complications: Partial nephrectomy is a less invasive procedure than radical nephrectomy, which reduces the risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, and adhesions.
- Faster recovery time: Patients who undergo partial nephrectomy typically experience a faster recovery time than those who undergo radical nephrectomy.
- Improved quality of life: By preserving kidney function and reducing the risk of complications, partial nephrectomy can improve a patient's overall quality of life.
Indications for Partial Nephrectomy
Partial nephrectomy is typically recommended for patients with small to medium-sized kidney tumours (less than 4 cm in diameter) that are located in a position that allows for safe removal of the tumour while preserving the healthy portion of the kidney.
Patients with larger tumours or tumours that are located in a more complex position may require radical nephrectomy or other treatment options.
Partial nephrectomy is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with kidney tumours. By preserving kidney function and reducing the risk of complications, partial nephrectomy can improve a patient's overall quality of life.
If you have been diagnosed with a kidney tumour, it is essential to discuss your treatment options with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if partial nephrectomy is right for you.
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