Description

Surgery is a primary treatment option for kidney cancer, especially for localized tumors. The main surgical procedures for kidney cancer include: 1. **Partial Nephrectomy:** Also known as nephron-sparing surgery, this procedure involves removing only the cancerous part of the kidney while preserving the rest of the organ. It is typically recommended for small tumors or when preserving kidney function is a priority. 2. **Radical Nephrectomy:** In this procedure, the entire affected kidney along with the surrounding tissue and nearby lymph nodes may be removed. It is usually performed for larger tumors or when the cancer has spread beyond the kidney. 3. **Laparoscopic or Robotic-Assisted Nephrectomy:** These minimally invasive approaches use small incisions and specialized instruments to perform the surgery. They offer benefits such as shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and reduced post-operative pain compared to traditional open surgery. 4. **Cryoablation or Radiofrequency Ablation:** These are minimally invasive procedures that use extreme cold (cryoablation) or high-energy radio waves (radiofrequency ablation) to destroy cancerous tissue in the kidney. They may be options for patients who are not candidates for surgery due to health reasons or for those with small tumors. The choice of surgery depends on factors such as the size and stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor within the kidney, overall health, and patient preferences. It's important for patients to discuss all available treatment options with their healthcare team to make an informed decision tailored to their individual circumstances. Additionally, adjuvant treatments such as targeted therapy or immunotherapy may be recommended in some cases, especially if the cancer has spread beyond the kidney.