A minimally invasive approach to remove a part of or whole kidney.
It is a safe and effective way to remove a diseased or cancerous kidney.
Indications for Laparoscopic Nephrectomy
- Chronic Kidney Disease
- Swelling of the Kidneys
- Bacterial Infection of The Malformed Kidneys
- End-Stage Renal Disease
- Abnormally Small Kidneys
- Dysplastic kidney (the internal structures of the kidneys do not develop properly)
- Kidney Transplantation
- Kidney Cancer
Laparoscopic Nephrectomy: How to Prepare?
Before the procedure, specific tests are performed to assess the condition during surgery.
- Tests may include blood and urine tests, ECG, and MRSA screening.
- Stop taking certain medications as advised.
- Avoid eating 6 hours before surgery and drinking water 2 hours before surgery.
Laparoscopic Nephrectomy: What to Expect?
- Under general anesthesia is given to the patient. During laparoscopic nephrectomy, three to four small incisions of less than one centimeter are made in the abdomen.
- A laparoscope, a thin tube with a video camera attached to one end, is inserted into the abdomen along with surgical instruments.
- The kidney is then separated and removed from the surrounding organs.
The procedure takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Laparoscopic Nephrectomy: Recovery Care
- Recovery takes about two to three weeks after surgery.
- Avoid heavy or strenuous work for four to six weeks.
- Start exercises slowly with short and gentle forms.
- Drink plenty of fluids daily to keep the kidneys healthy.
- Abstain from sexual activity for three to four weeks after surgery.
Myth and Facts: Laparoscopic Nephrectomy
Myth: Recovery takes a long time.
Fact: Recovery after laparoscopic nephrectomy is generally shorter than recovery after traditional open surgery. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks.
Myth: The procedure is very painful.
Fact: Pain after laparoscopic nephrectomy is usually mild to moderate and can be managed with pain medication.
FAQs: Laparoscopic Nephrectomy
Q. How long does it take to recover from laparoscopic nephrectomy?
A. Most patients can return to normal activities within two to three weeks after the procedure.
Q. Will I need to stay in the hospital after a laparoscopic nephrectomy?
A. Most patients can go home the day after the procedure or after a short hospital stay.
