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Life With One Kidney After Cancer Surgery: Realistic Expectations vs Myths

25 Sep
By Dr. Anup Ramani
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Living with one kidney after undergoing kidney cancer surgery is a life-altering experience. While the procedure offers the hope of cancer remission, it’s important to have realistic expectations about life after surgery. This article explores what to expect post-surgery, debunks common myths and provides helpful insights on maintaining health and well-being after kidney cancer treatment.

Debunking Common Myths About Life with One Kidney

There are several myths that surround the idea of living with one kidney after surgery. One of the most common myths is that living with one kidney significantly reduces life expectancy. In fact, with proper care, most people with one kidney live full, healthy lives. The remaining kidney has an extraordinary ability to adapt and take over the functions of the lost one, particularly after Minimal Invasive Radical Nephrectomy  procedures, such as robotic surgeries.

Living-Kidney

Another prevalent myth is that people who have only one kidney cannot participate in physical activities or lead an active lifestyle. While it’s essential to be cautious in some circumstances (for example, avoiding contact sports that could risk injury), most individuals can engage in regular exercise and physical activities, provided they follow medical advice.

How Losing a Kidney Affects Your Body’s Function and Daily Life

Losing a kidney, particularly after Kidney Cancer Surgery, does have some effects on the body’s ability to filter waste and regulate fluid balance. However, the remaining kidney compensates for these functions. In most cases, patients will experience only mild or no noticeable changes in daily life once they have fully recovered from the surgery.

The remaining kidney can grow in size and increase its filtration capacity, though it may not be able to completely replace the lost kidney’s function. Some patients may experience mild fatigue or changes in their urinary habits. For instance, they might notice more frequent visits to the bathroom or changes in urine color and clarity. However, these changes are generally temporary and subside as the body adjusts.

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Managing Kidney Function: What to Expect After Surgery

After Kidney Cancer Surgery, especially when the entire kidney is removed, it’s crucial to monitor the health and function of the remaining kidney. Regular blood tests, such as checking creatinine levels, are key to assessing kidney function. Most individuals with one kidney are able to maintain good kidney health as long as they manage their fluid intake, avoid nephrotoxic substances (such as certain medications) and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

It’s important to follow up with a healthcare provider regularly to monitor kidney health. Though kidney function typically remains stable, people with one kidney should avoid excessive use of alcohol, smoking and over-the-counter painkillers like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which could strain the remaining kidney.

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The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Maintaining Health with One Kidney

Diet and lifestyle play a critical role in maintaining kidney health after cancer surgery. Patients are advised to adopt a balanced, kidney-friendly diet, low in sodium, processed foods and excessive protein, which can overburden the kidneys. Staying hydrated is essential, as it helps the kidneys function efficiently. However, it’s important not to overhydrate, as too much fluid can strain the remaining kidney.

Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, weight management and good sleep hygiene is recommended to support overall health. While the loss of one kidney does not mean an automatic decline in quality of life, making conscious, healthy choices can improve longevity and minimize the risk of developing further kidney issues.

Long-Term Health Considerations After Kidney Cancer Surgery

Life after kidney cancer surgery involves ongoing monitoring to prevent complications. Kidney cancer treatment is often followed by a long-term surveillance plan that includes imaging tests and blood work to detect any recurrence or new issues. For most people, this involves routine visits with a nephrologist and oncologist to assess the health of the remaining kidney and overall well-being.

Over time, people who have undergone Kidney Cancer Surgery, such as Robotic Radical Nephrectomy, need to be vigilant for signs of chronic kidney disease. This includes paying attention to symptoms like swelling, fatigue or high blood pressure. While the remaining kidney often adapts well, the long-term health of the kidney can be influenced by lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise and controlling any underlying health conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

Psychological and Emotional Impact of Living with One Kidney

Undergoing kidney cancer surgery and living with one kidney can have emotional and psychological effects. Many patients experience a sense of vulnerability or anxiety about the future. Some may struggle with feelings of loss or grief after the removal of the organ, while others might fear the cancer returning.

It’s important to address these feelings and seek support through counseling, support groups or simply talking to loved ones. Many patients find comfort in connecting with others who have been through similar experiences. Maintaining mental and emotional well-being is an essential part of the overall recovery process and seeking professional help when needed is crucial for a healthy emotional recovery.

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Medical Follow-Up and Monitoring After Kidney Cancer Surgery

Medical follow-up is an essential part of life after Kidney Cancer Surgery. Patients typically undergo regular follow-up appointments with their oncologist and nephrologist. These visits usually include blood tests, imaging scans and regular check-ups to ensure that the remaining kidney is functioning properly and to catch any recurrence of cancer early.

During follow-up visits, patients are also assessed for the development of any long-term side effects from the surgery, such as high blood pressure or kidney-related complications. Early detection and management of these issues are vital to ensuring a good quality of life after kidney cancer treatment.

Conclusion

Living with one kidney after cancer surgery is entirely possible for most people, with the remaining kidney adapting to take over its functions. By managing your health through regular medical follow-ups, a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, you can maintain a good quality of life. While there are some adjustments and long-term health considerations to be mindful of, such as monitoring kidney function and avoiding unnecessary stress on the organ, the myths surrounding life with one kidney often exaggerate the challenges. With proper care, individuals can lead active, fulfilling lives after Kidney Cancer Surgery. The key is to remain vigilant, proactive and informed about your health.

FAQs About Kidney Cancer Surgery

Yes, most people can live a normal life with one kidney, especially after Robotic Surgery for Kidney Cancer.

The remaining kidney compensates for the loss, but it’s essential to monitor kidney health through regular check-ups.

Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol and smoking and follow a regular exercise routine to support kidney health.

Yes, regular follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring kidney function and detecting any recurrence of cancer.

While most individuals live healthily with one kidney, it’s important to avoid kidney stress, manage blood pressure and stay hydrated to prevent future complications.

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Dr. Anup Ramani is one of the best Uro oncologist, Surgeon in Mumbai, India providing Robotic Surgery and Treatment for Prostate Cancer, Kidney Tumor Surgery/Stone Removal, Urinary Bladder Cancer and Adrenal Gland Treatment, Enlarged Prostate Surgery and treatment, Penis Cancer/Partial Penectomy/Robotic Pyeloplasty Surgery and Treatment.

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PARTIAL PENECTOMY
  • Partial penectomy is done in cases where glans and distal penis is involved with carcinoma. 
  • Partial penectomy is a type of organ-preserving surgery. Preservation of sexual and micturational function depends on the surgical dissection and reconstruction of residual urethra.
Kidney Stone Removal
  • Patients who develop stones in the kidney or ureter, often experience severe pain.
  • This condition usually needs a procedure to remove the kidney stones.
  • This procedure is called ureteroscopy and is performed very commonly.
  • It does not require any cuts and hence it is painless.
  • The procedure is performed with an endoscope inserted through the penis under spinal anesthesia.
  • The scope is inserted through the penis into the kidney and stones are dissolved with a laser.
  • The procedure takes about 40-50 minutes. 
  • A catheter (urine pipe) is kept after the procedure to drain the bladder. A stent is kept in the kidney at the same time.
  • Patient is mobile and walking in the room the same evening.
  • Hospital stay is one night and patient is discharged the next day after removal of the catheter.
  • Patient has to come back after six weeks to remove the stent in the kidney.
  • Patients can resume office a week after surgery and heavy activities like running, weight lifting, a month after the procedure.
  • We offer fixed packages for this procedure which can be obtained by calling our helpline +91 9967666060.
  • Men with an enlarged prostate, which is a normal ageing changes, often experiencing difficulty passing urine. This condition usually needs a procedure to trim the prostate and relieve the blockage.
  • This procedure is called TURP and is performed very commonly.
  • It does not require any cuts and hence it is painless.
  • The procedure is performed with an endoscope inserted through the penis under spinal anaesthesia.
  • The overgrown prostate is dissolved with a laser bloodlessly.
  • The procedure takes about 40 minutes.
  • A catheter (urine pipe) is kept after the procedure to drain the bladder.
  • Patient is mobile and walking in the room the same evening.
  • Hospital stay is two nights and patient is discharged with the catheter, which is removed after 4 days.
  • Patients can resume office a week after surgery and heavy activities like running, weight lifting, a month after the procedure.
  • We offer fixed packages for this procedure which can be obtained by calling our helpline +91 9967666060.
ROBOTIC ADRENALECTOMY FOR ADRENAL GLAND TUMOUR

  • Robotic adrenalectomy is a sophisticated, complex surgery and it is very important that an experienced surgeon performs this surgery to avoid major complications.

  • Once the anesthesia is done, and patient positioned, three micro cuts (3mm each) are made in the patient’s abdomen.

  • The arms of the Da Vinci robot are connected to the cuts via ports (tubes).

  • Dr. Ramani then sits in the controlling console to perform the surgery.

  • On an average, a robotic adrenalectomy takes one hour.

  • The surgery is almost completely bloodless and there has never been any need to transfuse blood after surgery.

  • A urine catheter and bag to drain the bladder is inserted during surgery.

  • A tiny drain pipe may be inserted in the surgical side of the abdomen, connected to a bag.

  • Patient is kept nil-by-mouth the day of the surgery, with IV fluids. Sips of water are started the next day and solid food by day three.

  • The drain pipe, if kept, is removed in the room on day 2 after surgery.

  • The catheter is removed on day two after surgery.

  • Total hospital stay for robotic adrenalectomy is 4 nights (including night before surgery).

  • Post discharge, a doctor from the surgical team visits the patient at home/ hotel room once every day.

RETURN TO ACTIVITY

  • On the day of discharge, patient is totally self-sufficient. They are able to walk freely without any pain, dress themselves, shower, toilet and they do not need to hire any nurse or help at home. Almost all patients are back to work within 2 weeks of surgery.

  • Heavy activities like running, weight lifting can be resumed after a month

FOLLOW UP AFTER SURGERY

  • Follow up after an adrenalectomy is in the form of CT scans, once a year for 5 years.
    Local patients usually meet Dr. Ramani after two weeks to discuss report.

  • Outstation patients are counselled on a phone consultation.

ROBOTIC SURGERY FOR BLADDER CANCER
  • Dr. Ramani is one of the very few surgeons in India who has the expertise to perform a robotic surgery for bladder cancer, which includes removing the urinary bladder and reconstructing a new bladder robotically.
  • Robotic radical cystectomy is an extremely sophisticated, complex surgery and it is very important that an experienced surgeon performs this surgery to avoid major complications.
  • Once the anaesthesia is done, and patient positioned, six micro cuts (3mm each) are made in the patient’s abdomen.
  • The arms of the Da Vinci robot are connected to the cuts via ports (tubes).
  • Dr. Ramani then sits in the controlling console to perform the surgery.
  • On an average, a robotic radical cystectomy with an ileal conduit takes 3-4 hours.
  • The surgery is almost completely bloodless and there has never been any need to transfuse blood after surgery.
  • A urine catheter and bag to drain the new bladder is inserted during surgery.
  • Two tiny drain pipe in inserted in the surgical side of the abdomen, connected to a bag.
  • Patient is kept nil-by-mouth for 4 days after surgery with IV supplementation of patient’s daily requirements of calories, fats, carbohydrates, proteins and electrolytes.
  • The drain pipes are removed in the room on day 3-5 after surgery.
  • Total hospital stay for radical cystectomy is 8 nights (including night before surgery).
  • Post discharge, a doctor from the surgical team visits the patient at home/ hotel room once every day.
RETURN TO ACTIVITY
  • On the day of discharge, patient is totally self-sufficient. They are able to walk freely without any pain, dress themselves, shower, toilet and they do not need to hire any nurse or help at home.
  • Almost all patients are back to work within 6 weeks of surgery. Heavy activities like running, weight lifting can be resumed after two months.
FOLLOW UP AFTER SURGERY

  • Follow up after a radical a cystectomy is in the form of CT scans, once a year for 5 years.

  • Histopathology report: Local patients usually meet Dr. Ramani after two weeks to discuss report.

  • Outstation patients are counselled on a phone consult. Depending on the report, patient may or may not need chemotherapy after surgery.

  • If chemo is needed, patients may choose to get it done with a medical oncologist of their choice or avail the services of one of the four medical oncologists on our team.

ROBOTIC RADICAL/PARTIAL NEPHRECTOMY FOR KIDNEY CANCER
  • Robotic partial nephrectomy is a sophisticated, complex surgery and it is very important that an experienced surgeon performs this surgery to avoid major complications. Robotic radical (total) nephrectomy is
  • relatively easier but still requires significant experience to consistently deliver results.
  • Once the anaesthesia is done, and patient positioned, five micro cuts (3mm each) are made in the patient’s abdomen.
  • The arms of the Da Vinci robot are connected to the cuts via ports (tubes).
  • Dr. Ramani then sits in the controlling console to perform the surgery.
  • On an average, a robotic radical nephrectomy takes one hour and a robotic partial nephrectomy takes about an hour and half.
  • The surgery is almost completely bloodless and there has never been any need to transfuse blood after surgery.
  • A urine catheter and bag to drain the bladder is inserted during surgery.
  • A tiny drain pipe in inserted in the surgical side of the abdomen, connected to a bag.
  • Patient is kept nil-by-mouth the day of the surgery, with IV fluids. Sips of water are started the next day and solid food by day three.
  • The drain pipe is removed in the room on day 3 after surgery. The catheter is removed on day two after surgery.
  • Total hospital stay for radical/partial nephrectomy is 4 nights (including night before surgery).
  • Post discharge, a doctor from the surgical team visits the patient at home/ hotel room once every day.
RETURN TO ACTIVITY
  • On the day of discharge, patient is totally self- sufficient. 
  • They are able to walk freely without any pain, dress themselves, shower, toilet and they do not need to hire any nurse or help at home. 
  • Almost all patients are back to work within 2-3 weeks of surgery.
  • Heavy activities like running, weight lifting can be resumed after a month.
FOLLOW UP AFTER SURGERY
  • Follow up after a radical/partial Nephrectomy is in the form of CT scans, once a year for 5 years.
  • Local patients usually meet Dr. Ramani after two weeks to discuss report. 
  • Outstation patients are counselled on a phone consultation.