Laparoscopic Nephrectomy

A “laparoscopic nephrectomy” is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to treat large renal masses which are suspected or confirmed to be kidney cancer. The aim of this operation is to remove the entire kidney and tumour. The operation is performed using “keyholes” one of which is extended to remove the kidney whole.

WHAT DOES THE PROCEDURE INVOLVE?

Once the anaesthetic is delivered the patient, asleep, is placed on the operating table and prepped. A catheter is placed into the bladder. “Keyhole” incisions are made on the side of the target kidney, to allow insertion of hollow tubes (cannulas) into the abdomen. Gas is then pumped into the abdomen to obtain a good view around the kidney. The surgeon then uses thin long “chopstick-like” instruments to complete the operation. They are assisted by a surgical assistant and a scrub nurse.

The blood vessels supplying the kidney are identified and clamped. The kidney is then mobilised and removed through a small extension of one of the keyhole incisions and the wounds are closed with absorbable sutures. The specimen is sent to the laboratory to be analysed by a specialist pathologist. The patient generally wakes up soon after the procedure in recovery, and if stable goes to the intensive care or surgical ward.

HOW DO I PREPARE BEFORE MY PROCEDURE?

WHAT CAN I EXPECT IN HOSPITAL AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

The aim before discharge is for you to be able to:

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER I AM DISCHARGED?

WHAT ABOUT DIET?

WHAT ABOUT EXERCISE/ACTIVITY?

WHAT ABOUT MEDICATIONS?

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS/COMPLICATIONS?

Occasional/Uncommon

Rare

NOTIFY GM UROLOGY or your GP if you experience any of the following:

FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENT

You should have an appointment to see your doctor in 2-3 weeks. If this appointment time is not given to you on discharge from hospital, please phone GM Urology.
If you have any queries please contact GM Urology on 03 5201 7000 during business hours OR leave a message on the After Hours Urology Paging Service 03 9387 1000