Surgical treatment options for kidney cancer

According to SingHealth, the prevalence of kidney cancer in Singapore has been rising exponentially at a rate of about 2-3% (annually) and is considered to be the 8^th most common cancer among men in the country. Kidney cancer develops when the kidney cells proliferate rapidly and form a mass or lump known as a tumour. While in most early stages of kidney cancer, the disease is asymptomatic (no symptoms), some patients may present with kidney cancer symptoms as an incidental finding during an evaluation or when they seek treatment when the cancer is in its late stage. If you are concerned with kidney cancer or need to learn more about the ideal surgical kidney cancer treatment for your condition, this article might be able to guide you on the right path.

Kidney cancer treatment

While a number of different treatments can be used to manage kidney cancer, surgery is usually the first line of treatment or primary management for most patients with renal cell carcinoma. However, other forms of kidney cancer treatments may be used for the management, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.

Surgical treatments

Radical nephrectomy

This surgery involves the removal of the tumour and surrounding tissues, as well as the entire kidney. For patients whose lymph nodes are also affected, a lymph node dissection is carried out. Radical nephrectomy is typically performed laparoscopically or by robotic surgery. This procedure is usually indicated for patients who have large tumours with little to no healthy tissues. Additionally, if the adrenal gland is also affected, it may also be needed to be removed.

Partial nephrectomy

This procedure refers to the surgical removal of the tumour that enables the preservation of kidney function. This surgery is also beneficial in reducing the risk of chronic kidney disease after surgery. However, as with any other procedure, some risks might be associated, such as bleeding and urine leakage.

Cytoreductive nephrectomy

In cases where the kidney cancer has metastasised beyond the kidney, cytoreductive nephrectomy may be required. This surgery involves the excision of the primary kidney tumour as well as the entire kidney. This might be indicated following a diagnosis or after the start of systemic therapy. But in most patients whose cancers have spread to adjacent organs, it is advisable to treat the cancer with systemic therapy.

Surgery for recurrent renal cancer

Some patients may have their cancer recur even after the initial surgery has been carried out. In these cases, surgery might be needed to manage their condition.

Robotic surgery

Patients with kidney cancer might be suitable for another procedure known as robotic surgery. This procedure is a good alternative to radical nephrectomy as it is minimally invasive and has fewer risks and complications.

In conclusion, while surgery might be the preferred choice for most patients with kidney cancers, it may not be suitable in some cases. Patients who are very ill and are not fit to undergo surgery and those who do not wish to carry out surgical kidney cancer treatments will be given more conservative treatment options for their cancer management. In addition, if the tumour is very small, surgery might not be necessary.

Reach out to an expert in urological conditions in Singapore

Are you worried about some signs that seem to resemble kidney cancer symptoms? Want an experienced specialist to assess you? Get in touch with Assure Urology & Robotic Centre – the team along with their Senior Consultant Urologist, Dr Terence Lim, will ensure that you receive the proper diagnosis and treatment. The clinic has a range of treatments and services to help you manage your condition and enhance your quality of life. So, if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact their friendly team today.