Nephrectomy in Lake Charles, LA

A nephrectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove a kidney partially or entirely. Dr. Siddiq has specialized in this type of surgery for many years and has been able to help patients successfully navigate potentially life-threatening conditions.

Dr. Siddiq introduced the ground-breaking technology of robotic-assisted surgeries to Southwest Louisiana and is considered a leader in the field. He is skilled in minimally invasive, complex surgeries and has earned a reputation for innovation and quality care with outstanding surgical outcomes. Call his urology clinic in Lake Charles and Sulphur to schedule an appointment.

Why a Nephrectomy Is Performed?

This surgery is performed for the treatment of kidney cancer, removal of a mass from the kidney or kidney problems that have resulted in permanent damage.

There are five distinct types of nephrectomies that Dr. Siddiq performs:

Robotic-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy

A partial nephrectomy is typically done when a kidney mass is found.  Dr. Siddiq is able to remove the mass and the part of the kidney that has been affected.  The goal of a partial nephrectomy is to preserve as much kidney function as possible. Not all patients with kidney masses are candidates for a partial nephrectomy.

Robotic-Assisted Simple Nephrectomy

Simple nephrectomies are usually performed when permanent damage has occurred because of severe disease. The entire kidney is removed, but tissues that are near the kidney such as the adrenal glands and lymph nodes are left.

Robotic-Assisted Radical Nephrectomy

A radical nephrectomy is used to treat cancer found in the kidney. This is done when a mass is too large to be excised safely with a partial nephrectomy.  The entire kidney and some of the surrounding tissues are removed such as the adrenal gland, lymph nodes and ureter (the tube that drains urine from the kidneys into the bladder).

Benefits of the da Vinci Surgical System

A robotic approach to a nephrectomy has significant advantages over an open technique.  Robotic surgeries are done laparoscopically which means that several small incisions will be made to access the surgical site as opposed to one large incision.  Small incisions are associated with less pain and faster healing.

The da Vinci system allows Dr. Siddiq to operate in a small area very precisely. There is less blood loss and better surgical outcomes associated with a robotic approach when compared to an open method.

Laparoscopic Hand-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy

Dr. Siddiq will make several small incisions on your abdomen to gain access to your affected kidney. One of these incisions will have a special port inserted that will allow a hand to pass through it. Partial nephrectomies are usually done to remove masses. During a partial nephrectomy, Dr. Siddiq will remove the diseased part of your kidney and some of the surrounding tissues.

Laparoscopic Hand-Assisted Radical Nephrectomy

A radical nephrectomy is used to treat cancer of the kidney. It is done when a partial nephrectomy is not the best option to remove the cancer. The entire kidney and some of the surrounding tissues are removed. Dr. Siddiq will make several small incisions on the abdomen. One of these incisions will have a special port placed in it that will allow a hand to pass through it. Dr Siddiq will remove the kidney, the adrenal gland, lymph nodes and ureter (the tube that drains the urine from the kidneys into the bladder).

Which Approach Is Better?

Like robotic-assisted nephrectomy, laparoscopic hand-assisted nephrectomies have similar surgical outcomes regarding pain, time spent in the hospital, and recovery. The surgical approach selected is tailored to each patient’s needs.

After a Nephrectomy

Patients who have a robotic nephrectomy or laparoscopic hand-assisted nephrectomy can expect to spend at least one night in the hospital and slowly return to normal activities over several weeks.  It is important to adhere to discharge instructions carefully as they are in place to help prevent complications.

Schedule An Appointment

Most patients that are candidates for a nephrectomy are referred to Dr. Siddiq by other physicians. However, you may schedule an appointment at 337-480-7499.