Nephrectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of a kidney. It is performed to treat kidney cancer, severely damaged kidneys, non-functioning kidneys, or complex kidney diseases.
Under the expertise of Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar, nephrectomy is performed using modern surgical techniques—laparoscopic, robotic, or open—to ensure safe outcomes, minimal pain, and a smooth recovery.

What Is Nephrectomy?

Nephrectomy involves removing a diseased or non-functioning kidney.
Depending on the condition, it may be:

1. Partial Nephrectomy

Only the diseased portion of the kidney is removed.
Purpose: Preserve as much healthy kidney tissue as possible.
Ideal for small tumors or localized disease.

2. Radical Nephrectomy

The entire kidney is removed along with surrounding tissues when necessary.
Purpose: Treat cancer or severely damaged kidneys.

3. Simple Nephrectomy

Removal of a non-functioning or infected kidney.
Purpose: Treat conditions like chronic infection, stones, or obstruction.

Who Needs Nephrectomy?

Nephrectomy is recommended for:

• Kidney cancer

• Renal tumors (benign or malignant)

• Non-functioning kidney

• Severe kidney infections

• Large or complex kidney stones causing permanent damage

• Traumatic kidney injury

• Polycystic kidney disease complications

• Obstructed kidneys with repeated infections

Symptoms That May Require Evaluation

• Persistent flank pain

• Blood in urine

• Recurrent UTIs

• Weight loss, fever, or fatigue (in cancer)

• Poorly functioning kidney on scans

• Swelling or palpable mass

Early diagnosis ensures better outcomes.

How Nephrectomy Is Performed

Depending on the patient’s condition, nephrectomy can be done using:

1. Laparoscopic Nephrectomy

• Keyhole incisions

• Minimal pain

• Faster recovery

• Preferred for most benign and many cancer cases

2. Robotic-Assisted Nephrectomy

• Enhanced precision

• Better visualization

• Ideal for complex tumors

• Faster healing and minimal blood loss

3. Open Nephrectomy

• Used in very large tumors or difficult anatomical cases

Surgical Steps (General Overview):

1. Anesthesia is administered.

2. Surgical access is created depending on the technique.

3. The kidney or diseased segment is carefully removed.

4. Blood vessels and ureter are safely managed.

5. The incision(s) are closed, and the patient is monitored.

Benefits of Modern Nephrectomy

• Effective removal of diseased tissue

• High cancer-control rates

• Protection of overall kidney function

• Minimal postoperative pain

• Shorter hospital stay (especially with laparoscopic/robotic techniques)

• Faster return to normal activities

Recovery After Nephrectomy

Most patients experience:

• Hospital stay: 2–4 days

• Return to routine work: 2–3 weeks (laparoscopic/robotic), 4–6 weeks (open)

• Mild discomfort at the incision site

• Gradual improvement in stamina

Follow-up includes wound care, blood tests, kidney function monitoring, and imaging if needed.

Living With One Kidney

Most people live a completely normal life with one healthy kidney.
Important long-term recommendations include:

• Staying well-hydrated

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle

• Regular follow-up for kidney function tests

• Avoiding unnecessary nephrotoxic medications

Why Choose Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar for Nephrectomy?

• Expertise in laparoscopic and robotic kidney surgery

• Precision-based surgical approach

• Focus on kidney preservation whenever possible

• Clear communication and compassionate care

• Proven outcomes in both benign and cancer cases

• Comprehensive pre- and post-surgery support

Book a Consultation

If you have a kidney condition that requires evaluation or surgical treatment, consult Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar for advanced, safe, and personalized nephrectomy care.