Kidney Cancer Surgery

Robotic and laparoscopic surgery for kidney cancer includes partial nephrectomy (where the tumour is removed and the kidney is preserved) and radical nephrectomy (in which the entire kidney is removed). Phil has extensive experience in both of these procedures and will only perform radical nephrectomy for the most complex tumours, where preservation of the kidney is not feasible. 

The robotic approach in partial nephrectomy has the advantages of decreasing blood loss, post-operative pain and complication rates in comparison to open surgery in addition to allowing earlier return to normal activity. The dexterity of the robotic instruments allows much more precise placement of sutures when reconstructing the kidney in comparison to the laparoscopic approach. Phil has presented at national and international conferences on robotic partial nephrectomy techniques.

Robotic Surgery for Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer arises from abnormal cell growth from the renal parenchyma (the “meaty” part of the kidney), forming a “lump” on or in the kidney. Surgery to remove the tumour mass or the whole kidney is the most effective treatment option with most patients able to avoid chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

One of the most advanced techniques for treating kidney cancer is robotic kidney surgery, a minimally invasive approach that offers significant advantages over open or laparoscopic surgery. Radical nephrectomy (complete removal of the kidney) and partial nephrectomy (removal of the tumour mass with preservation of the kidney) can both be performed with robotic surgery techniques.

Phil is a member of faculty at the International Medical Robotics Academy and helped develop its robotic surgery curriculum, combining online learning, simulations, models, and live surgery.

What is Robotic Kidney Surgery?

Robotic kidney surgery is a minimally invasive type of laparoscopic surgery. The procedure involves the use of  robotic instruments for precise operations. The surgeon controls the instruments from a console, enabling enhanced precision, dexterity, and control through small incisions.

Key procedures include:

  • Radical Nephrectomy: The removal of the entire kidney (including the tumour), often necessary in more advanced cases of kidney cancer.
  • Partial Nephrectomy: The removal of kidney cancer while preserving the remaining healthy kidney.

 

Why do we use Robotic Surgery for Kidney Cancer?

Minimally Invasive Approach

Robotic surgery offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions. With robotic assistance, the procedure can be performed through small incisions, which means less pain, fewer complications, and faster recovery times for patients.

Precision in Tumour Removal

Partial nephrectomy removes only the cancerous part of the kidney, preserving healthy tissue. Robotic instruments allow precise removal, reducing blood loss, complications, and positive margin rates. Complex tumors that once required full kidney removal can now often be treated with this method.

Enhanced Visibility

Robotic surgery provides a magnified, high-definition 3D view of the surgical area, giving the surgeon superior visibility. This enhanced visualisation is especially beneficial for delicate procedures like partial nephrectomy, where precision is key to preserving healthy kidney tissue while removing kidney cancer.

Better Outcomes

Published literature demonstrates that patients undergoing robotic kidney surgery for kidney cancer experience superior outcomes compared to those undergoing open or standard laparoscopic surgery, with benefits including lower complication rates, reduced blood loss and transfusion needs, quicker recovery, better kidney preservation and renal function, less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and smaller scars.

Choosing a skilled surgeon is critical for successful outcomes in kidney cancer treatment. Philip Dundee is recognised as a leading expert in robotic surgery, ensuring that patients receive the highest level of care.

If you or a loved one is facing a kidney cancer diagnosis, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the right option for you.