Laparoscopic techniques have made the greatest inroads in the treatment of renal (kidney) cell carcinoma.

Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (removal of the kidney with minimally invasive techniques) is now the standard alternative to open radical nephrectomy. The laparoscopic procedure is the equivalent of taking out a kidney through three or four small holes.

The benefits are dramatic, with hospital stays halved and recovery time reduced from six to eight weeks for open surgery to two to three weeks for laparoscopy. Furthermore, the cost is equivalent.

The Department of Urology is a national leader is developing new techniques to perform laparoscopic partial nephrectomies for patients with small kidney tumors. Together, the partial and total procedures have allowed the Department to treat most renal tumors laparoscopically, thereby greatly reducing patient recovery time.

Select patients with small renal tumors may be eligible for percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, which requires no surgery. CT scan technology is used by the physician to guide the probe, and the patient is able to go home in only one to two days.

For more information about the Department of Urology, contact:

Phone: 214-648-4765, FAX: 214-648-4789

Mailing Address:  5323 Harry Hines Blvd., J8.148, Dallas, TX  75390-9110