When you have a tumor in your kidney, it is vital that the condition is treated quickly and effectively to try to restore and maintain function. WakeMed has urologists who are trained in minimally invasive robotic procedures that quickly clear blockages and growths. These procedures, which have been done as open procedures in the past, are now available laparoscopically at WakeMed, reducing your risks and decreasing your recovery time.
Urologists work with our dedicated surgical team at WakeMed to perform what is called robotic partial nephrectomy.
Robotic Partial Nephrectomy
Robotic partial nephrectomy is considered the gold standard for most patients with kidney cancer or a benign kidney tumor. The tumor/growth is removed while leaving the rest of the kidney in place —an approach that maximizes kidney function.
The urologist makes a series of small incisions in the abdomen and the camera and instruments are inserted. The patient’s abdomen is inflated with gas and nearby organs are moved aside to reveal a clear view of the kidney. Blood flow to the kidney is temporarily shut down to prevent excessive bleeding during surgery. The tumor is then cut out and the remaining kidney is stitched back together.
This procedure offers significant advantages over an open surgery, including less trauma and scarring and a faster recovery. Most patients recover in two weeks, as opposed to six to eight weeks from an open surgery.