Prab at 21:55, 6 September 2023

2023-09-06T21:55:35Z

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'''Nephrectomy''' is the [[surgical]] removal of a kidney. It is commonly performed in patients with [[Renal cell carcinoma]] or other forms of [[Kidney cancer]].

[[File:Diseases of the kidneys, ureters and bladder, with special reference to the diseases of women (1922) (14579303339).jpg|thumb|Diseases of the kidneys, ureters and bladder, with special reference to the diseases of women]]
[[File:Diagram showing before and after a radical nephrectomy CRUK 104.svg|File:Diagram showing before and after a radical nephrectomy CRUK 104|thumb]]
== Definition ==
'''Nephrectomy''' refers to the surgical procedure wherein one or both kidneys are removed. This operation is typically recommended for patients diagnosed with kidney diseases such as [[Renal cell carcinoma]] or other forms of [[Kidney cancer]]. The kidney plays an essential role in filtering blood, maintaining electrolyte balance, and producing urine.

=== Indications for Nephrectomy ===

[[File:Diffuse proliferative lupus nephritis.jpg|thumb|Diffuse proliferative lupus nephritis]]
A nephrectomy may be indicated for several conditions, including:

* '''[[Renal Cell Carcinoma]]''': The most common type of kidney cancer in adults.
* '''[[Polycystic Kidney Disease]]''': A genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys.
* '''Severe Kidney Damage or Injury''': Resulting from trauma or other conditions.
* '''[[Chronic Kidney Disease]]''': Where kidney function has deteriorated over time.
* As a '''donor procedure''' for [[kidney transplant]].

=== Types of Nephrectomy ===

There are various approaches to performing a nephrectomy:

* '''Simple Nephrectomy''': Removal of only the kidney.
* '''Radical Nephrectomy''': Involves the removal of the kidney, adjacent adrenal gland, surrounding fatty tissue, and nearby lymph nodes.
* '''Partial Nephrectomy''': Only a segment of the kidney, usually containing the tumor, is removed. This is often done to preserve kidney function.

=== Surgical Approaches ===

Depending on the patient's condition, different surgical techniques can be employed:

* '''Open Nephrectomy''': An incision is made in the abdomen or side to remove the kidney.
* '''Laparoscopic Nephrectomy''': Uses smaller incisions and special instruments guided by a camera. It generally leads to a faster recovery time and less post-operative pain.
* '''Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Nephrectomy''': A minimally invasive procedure that uses robotic arms for more precise movements.

=== Risks and Complications ===

Like any surgical procedure, nephrectomies carry certain risks:

* Bleeding or hemorrhage
* Infection
* Damage to surrounding organs
* [[Pulmonary Embolism]] or blood clots
* Anesthesia-related complications
* Chronic kidney disease or failure if the remaining kidney doesn't function properly

=== Post-operative Care ===

After the procedure, patients may require:

* Hospitalization for several days to monitor recovery
* Pain management strategies
* [[Physical therapy]] for mobility
* Regular follow-up appointments to monitor kidney function and overall health

=== See also ===

* [[Kidney]]
* [[Kidney Transplant]]
* [[Urology]]
* [[Renal Physiology]]
* [[Cancer treatments]]
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{{Urologic surgical and other procedures}}
[[Category:Nephrology procedures]]
[[Category:Pediatric surgical procedures]]
[[Category:Surgical oncology]]
[[Category:Surgical removal procedures]]
[[Category:Urologic surgery]]

Nephrectomy - Revision history

Prab at 21:55, 6 September 2023