Kidney removal

Kidney removal

Definition

Kidney removal, also called nephrectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove a kidney.

Alternative Names

Nephrectomy

Indications

Kidney removal may be recommended for:

• Birth defects (congenital abnormalities)
• Injury (trauma)
• Infection
• Hypertension
• Tumor
• Chronic bleeding

Kidney removal is also performed on someone who donates a kidney for a kidney transplant.

Convalescence

You will be given fluids through an IV and pain medication. Kidney removal surgery is often very painful because of the location.

The health care team will carefully watch your blood pressure and electrolytes and fluid balance. These body functions are controlled in part by the kidneys. You will most likely have a urinary catheter (tube to drain urine) in place for a short time during your recovery.

You will probably remain in the hospital for 2 to 7 days, depending on the method of surgery used. You will be encouraged to return to light activities as soon as you feel up to it. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 6 weeks following the procedure.

Expectations after surgery

Outcome is usually good in the case of the removal of a single kidney. If both kidneys are removed or if the remaining kidney does not function well enough, hemodialysis or kidney transplantation will be necessary to maintain life.

Risks

Risks for any anesthesia include the following:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

• Bleeding
• Infection

Kidneys

Kidney removal - series

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