Treatment for kidney cancer
Surgery is the main treatment for kidney cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body. It is a big operation. Your surgeon may remove all of your kidney or only the part where the cancer is.
Different members of the healthcare team look after you during your stay in hospital. They make sure you are prepared for the operation, care for you as you recover and make sure you are ready to go home.
You might have part of your kidney removed (partial nephrectomy) or your whole kidney (radical nephrectomy). This depends on the size of the cancer and if it has spread.
Before you have your operation you will meet members of your healthcare team. They will tell you how to prepare for the operation. You may also some tests.
Your nurse, surgeon and anaesthetist will ask you questions and make sure you are ready for your operation.
Kidney cancer surgery is a big operation. You will have several tubes in place and some wounds afterwards. When you can go home depends on what type of operation you have had and how well you are recovering.
There is a risk of problems or complications after any operation. Many are minor but some are more serious. Problems after kidney cancer surgery can include infection and bleeding.
Last reviewed: 26 Jan 2024
Next review due: 26 Jan 2027
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