Overview
Simple nephrectomy involves surgical removal of a kidney that is severely damaged or no longer functioning adequately, particularly when it causes recurrent infection, persistent pain, obstruction or other significant problems.
Common Symptoms
Persistent flank pain, recurrent urinary infections, blood in urine, fever, kidney obstruction and poor kidney function.
Possible Causes
Severe chronic kidney damage, recurrent infections, non-functioning kidney, severe stone disease, obstruction and selected benign kidney conditions.
Diagnosis
Renal function tests, ultrasound, CT imaging, nuclear renal scans, urine tests and other investigations may be required.
Treatment & Procedures
The affected kidney is carefully separated from surrounding structures and removed. The operation may be performed using an open or minimally invasive approach depending on the individual case.
Recovery & Follow-up
Recovery depends on the surgical approach and overall health. Follow-up focuses on the function and health of the remaining kidney.
Benefits
Removes a severely diseased kidney, may relieve persistent pain or infection and addresses selected non-functioning kidney conditions.