A partial nephrectomy often is called kidney-sparing (or nephron-sparing) surgery. We remove the tumor but leave behind some healthy kidney tissue. This is done to save normal kidney function.

MSK researchers and other scientists have studied partial nephrectomy. They found for small kidney tumors, it has similar results to a complete nephrectomy, but saves kidney function.

Our surgeons are very experienced in partial nephrectomies. They often can do a laparoscopic or robotic partial nephrectomy. They use smaller instruments and many small incisions (surgical cuts) to remove tissue.

A radical nephrectomy is when we have to remove the entire kidney. Your surgeon may recommend this procedure if you have large tumors.

Surgery can treat urothelial cell tumors of the kidneys and ureters. Surgeons may remove the kidney, ureter, or a small piece of the bladder.

Your surgeon can do laparoscope and robotic-assisted surgery, using smaller incisions (surgical cuts). They may find a urothelial cell tumor on the surface of your renal pelvis or a ureter. If they do, they may be able to save your kidney with laser surgery. This method uses a narrow beam of light to remove cancer cells from inside your kidney.

Your surgeon also may remove nearby lymph nodes. Pathologists will examine the lymph nodes to look for cancer.

Our specialist surgeons may recommend surgery even if kidney cancer already has spread to other places. They can do the surgery either before or after you get medicine to shrink the tumor. A urologic surgeon may remove a kidney tumor that is bleeding or causing pain. They also may remove a kidney cancer tumor that has spread to another part of your body.

Your care team will always talk with you to make important decisions about complex surgery plans. Your surgeon will work with your MSK medical oncologist (cancer doctor) who treats you with medication (systemic therapy).