Kidney cancer is the seventh most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S., with a lifetime risk of 1.5 percent, according to the National Cancer Institute. Radiologic studies can lead to early detection of kidney tumors,and when diagnosed and treated at an early stage, kidney cancer has a high cure rate.
Kidney cancer can be treated effectively with surgical removal of the tumor. Studies have shown that patients with renal cell carcinoma who undergo partial removal of the kidney have longer survival when compared to those who have the entire kidney removed. This surgery, called a partial nephrectomy, is usually performed through a large flank incision, sometimes requiring removal of a rib.Robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery has dramatically expanded the treatment options available to patients with urologic diseases, including kidney cancer. I use the daVinci® robot system to perform partial nephrectomies through several small incisions. This translates into significant benefits for patients, which may include less post-operative pain, a shorter hospital stay and recovery, and returning to work in a shorter period of time.
Another kidney sparing modality, cryoablation (freezing), results in higher local recurrence rates compared to surgical removal. The 2009 American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines recommend ablative techniques be reserved for patients who are high-risk surgical candidates.
Moses Kim, M.D., Ph.D. is a Urologist located at 25200 La Paz Road, Suite #200, Laguna Hills, CA 92653. To schedule an appointment, call 949-855-1101.
