Robotic Kidney Surgery

Robotic kidney surgery is a modern surgical approach that provides high precision in the treatment of kidney tumors and structural abnormalities. Performed using a minimally invasive technique, this method helps protect surrounding tissues and offers a faster recovery process.

What is Robotic Kidney Surgery?

Robotic kidney surgery allows the surgeon to operate with advanced precision and control, using smaller incisions and minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.

As a result, the postoperative recovery process is more comfortable, and surgical trauma is kept to a minimum.

This surgical method is most commonly performed using the Da Vinci robotic surgical system, which provides three-dimensional, high-resolution images of the surgical area, enabling the surgeon to control the procedure in detail from a console.

Robotic kidney surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Four or five small incisions are made in the abdominal area to insert the robotic arms and camera.

Using these images, the surgeon guides the procedure with high accuracy to target the affected area.

The surgical approach depends on the size and location of the tumor within the kidney. The entire kidney may be removed, or only the tumor-affected portion may be excised.

This method is considered a kidney-preserving treatment option, aiming to maintain as much healthy kidney tissue as possible.

While there are various surgical procedures for treating kidney diseases, robotic kidney surgery should be distinguished from kidney transplantation.

Robotic surgery is usually performed to preserve or restore kidney function, whereas kidney transplantation is a treatment option for patients with end-stage kidney failure who do not respond to dialysis.

Advantages of Robotic Kidney Surgery

Robotic kidney cancer surgery offers several benefits due to its minimally invasive approach:

Smaller surgical incisions, which reduce trauma to surrounding tissues

Less pain and lower risk of bleeding

Faster recovery and shorter hospital stay

Less noticeable scars

High surgical precision, allowing the tumor to be removed more safely and effectively

Improved functional outcomes of the kidney

Better cosmetic results

This method provides the surgeon with enhanced control and precision, enabling safer and more accurate removal of cancerous tissue.

Robotic kidney surgery is not suitable for every patient. The tumor size, location, and the patient’s overall health are carefully evaluated by the physician before deciding on this surgical approach.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few weeks.

Preoperative Preparations for Robotic Kidney Surgery

Before robotic kidney surgery, the patient’s overall health is thoroughly evaluated.

This process includes:

Blood and urine tests

Necessary imaging studies

Physical examination to confirm suitability for surgery

Existing chronic conditions, regular medications, and allergy history are carefully reviewed. Medications such as blood thinners or certain herbal supplements may be stopped under physician guidance, as they can increase surgical risks.

An anesthesia assessment is performed before the surgery, and the patient is instructed to fast for a specified period. This helps reduce the risk of anesthesia-related complications.

To lower the risk of infection, patients are asked to follow personal hygiene guidelines before surgery. On the day of surgery, it is important to bring necessary documents and have a companion available to assist during the postoperative period.

Postoperative Care After Robotic Kidney Surgery

The recovery process after robotic kidney surgery is generally shorter and more comfortable compared to open surgery.

Pain management: Postoperative pain is usually mild and can be controlled with standard painkillers.

Hospital stay: Depending on the clinical situation, most patients are discharged on the first day after surgery.

Initial recovery: In the first few days, hospital monitoring continues. Pain is managed, medications are administered to reduce infection risk, and the patient’s mobility is gradually initiated under supervision. Following the doctor’s care and medication instructions is crucial for smooth recovery.

Home recovery: Within 1–2 weeks, patients generally recover at home and gradually return to daily activities. Most patients reach normal activity levels within 2–3 weeks. Recovery time may vary depending on the surgical procedure and the patient’s kidney condition.

Cost of Robotic Kidney Surgery

The cost of robotic kidney surgery varies based on multiple factors. For up-to-date and personalized pricing, contact Medipol Health Group directly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robotic Kidney Surgery

Is Robotic Surgery Safe?

Yes. When performed by experienced surgeons, robotic surgery is highly precise and reduces the risk of complications.

How Long Does Robotic Kidney Surgery Take?

Depending on the extent of the procedure, it typically takes 1 to 3 hours.

Does Robotic Kidney Surgery Leave Scars?

Robotic surgery is minimally invasive, using small 5–8 mm incisions, leaving minimal scars and improving cosmetic results and patient comfort.

How Long Does Pain Last After Kidney Surgery?

Postoperative pain is usually mild and significantly decreases within a few days.