Our Summary

This study talks about a surgical procedure known as robotic partial nephrectomy, which is a minimally invasive operation often used to remove kidney tumors in adults, while preserving as much kidney function as possible. The researchers are trying to apply this procedure to children, which is more challenging due to the smaller size of the patients and their internal organs.

The researchers carried out this operation on six children, in collaboration with surgeons who typically perform the procedure on adults. The surgery was successful in all cases, treating both harmful and non-harmful tumors.

The findings suggest that this minimally invasive surgery can be effectively used on children, but it’s highly recommended to involve surgeons experienced in adult procedures to avoid potential complications. Special strategies need to be considered for children due to their smaller size and the size of the tumor.

FAQs

  1. What is a robotic partial nephrectomy?
  2. Can robotic partial nephrectomy be performed on children?
  3. What special considerations need to be taken when performing this surgery on children?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing nephrectomy to follow post-operative care instructions closely, including taking prescribed medications, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It’s important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help support kidney function and overall recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for nephrectomy include those with:

  1. Kidney cancer or renal cell carcinoma: Nephrectomy is often recommended as a treatment for kidney cancer, especially if the tumor is large or has spread to other parts of the body.

  2. Kidney stones: Nephrectomy may be recommended if kidney stones are causing severe pain or are blocking the flow of urine.

  3. Kidney trauma: In cases of severe kidney injury or trauma, nephrectomy may be necessary to remove the damaged kidney.

  4. Polycystic kidney disease: In some cases, nephrectomy may be recommended for patients with polycystic kidney disease to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

  5. Kidney donation: Nephrectomy may also be recommended for individuals who are donating a kidney for transplantation.

Overall, the decision to recommend nephrectomy will depend on the specific condition of the patient and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. It is important for patients to discuss their options with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before nephrectomy:

  • Patient undergoes various diagnostic tests such as imaging scans (CT, MRI, ultrasound) to identify the kidney tumor
  • Patient consults with a urologist or oncologist to discuss treatment options, including the possibility of nephrectomy
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative testing, such as blood work and EKG, to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery
  • Patient may receive counseling and support to prepare for the surgery and potential outcomes

After nephrectomy:

  • Patient is closely monitored in the hospital for post-operative complications and recovery
  • Patient may experience pain, fatigue, and discomfort in the days following surgery
  • Patient may require pain medication, physical therapy, and wound care to aid in recovery
  • Patient may need to adjust to life with one kidney, including following dietary restrictions and monitoring kidney function
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor recovery and screen for any potential complications or tumor recurrence

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a nephrectomy and why is it being recommended for me or my child?
  2. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered instead of a nephrectomy?
  3. What are the risks and potential complications associated with a nephrectomy in children?
  4. How experienced is the surgical team in performing nephrectomies on children?
  5. What is the recovery process like for a child undergoing a nephrectomy?
  6. Will the child’s kidney function be affected by the nephrectomy, and if so, to what extent?
  7. How frequently will follow-up appointments be needed after the surgery?
  8. Are there any long-term effects or considerations to be aware of after a nephrectomy in a child?
  9. Will the child need any additional treatments or therapies following the nephrectomy?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions that the child will need to adhere to after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Antar A, Bachtel HA, Bates JN, Kim SJ, Saleem A, Bhatia V, Link RE, Koh CJ. Journal: J Pediatr Urol. 2022 Aug;18(4):538-540. doi: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2022.06.029. Epub 2022 Jul 2. PMID: 35931605