Nephrectomy: Why Is a Kidney Removed? Symptoms, Causes & Treatments
The removal of a kidney is a significant procedure that may be essential for treating serious medical conditions and can, in some cases, save lives. Whether due to cancer, injury, or severe infection, nephrectomy is often necessary when one kidney can no longer function or poses a threat to overall health. In this article, we explore the reasons for kidney removal, the symptoms that may lead to the procedure, and the available treatment options — including kidney removal surgery in Turkey, which is increasingly attracting international patients.
What Is a Nephrectomy?
A nephrectomy is performed to remove part or all of a kidney, depending on the nature and severity of the condition. There are generally two main approaches to the procedure:
- Partial: Only the diseased or damaged portion of the kidney is removed.
- Radical (or total): Entails the complete removal of the kidney and may also include surrounding tissues or lymph nodes if cancer or extensive damage is present.
Depending on the patient’s condition, the surgery may be performed through traditional open surgery or via minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, which are commonly used in trusted clinics in Istanbul, Turkey and other leading medical centers.
Why Is a Kidney Removed?
There are several medical reasons that may require the removal of a kidney:
1. Kidney Cancer
One of the most common reasons for nephrectomy is kidney cancer, particularly renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for approximately 85–90% of all kidney cancers. This type of cancer often develops in the lining of the small tubes within the kidney and may not cause symptoms in its early stages. When detected, a radical nephrectomy is frequently recommended to remove the tumor and prevent the spread of cancerous cells to nearby organs or lymph nodes. Early surgical intervention can significantly improve survival rates and long-term outcomes.
2. Severe Kidney Damage
A kidney may be so badly injured that it becomes non-functional or dangerous to retain. This often occurs as a result of blunt trauma or penetrating injuries — such as those caused by car accidents, falls, physical assaults, or sports-related incidents. In some cases, attempts may be made to repair the kidney, but if the damage is extensive or accompanied by internal bleeding, infection, or tissue death, surgical removal is often the safest course of action.
3. Non-Functioning Kidney
A kidney that has lost its ability to function can cause chronic pain, recurring infections, and other health complications. This may happen due to repeated kidney infections (pyelonephritis), long-standing kidney stones, hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney due to urine buildup), or obstructions in the urinary tract. When the kidney becomes a source of chronic illness or potential infection, and conservative treatments are no longer effective, a nephrectomy is considered necessary to avoid further damage to the patient’s health.
4. Kidney Donation
In the context of living organ donation, healthy individuals may choose to donate one of their kidneys to a person suffering from end-stage renal disease who requires a transplant. This type of nephrectomy is performed in a controlled surgical environment with great care to preserve the health of the donor. With only one kidney, most donors go on to live long, healthy lives. Kidney donation is a profoundly impactful gesture, often offering the recipient a chance at a much-improved quality of life and longevity.
Symptoms That May Lead to a Nephrectomy
Before a nephrectomy is considered, several symptoms or diagnostic findings may signal the need for intervention:
- Persistent pain in the lower back or side
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- High blood pressure difficult to control
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Abnormal results in imaging scans (CT, MRI, or ultrasound)
It is crucial to consult a urologist for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis.
Kidney Removal Surgery in Turkey
Turkey has become a leading destination for kidney removal surgery, especially for international patients seeking high-quality care at affordable prices. The combination of advanced medical technologies, internationally accredited hospitals, and experienced surgeons makes it a reliable choice.
Patients often choose the best clinics in Istanbul Turkey for nephrectomy due to:
- Shorter waiting times
- Affordable packages compared to Western Europe and the US
- Multilingual medical teams
- Comprehensive post-operative care
Furthermore, many Turkish hospitals are JCI-accredited, ensuring they meet global standards for safety and quality.
Recovery After Nephrectomy
Recovery time varies depending on the surgical method. Most patients:
- Stay in the hospital for 2–5 days
- Return to normal activities within 4–6 weeks (laparoscopic surgery may offer faster recovery)
- Ongoing follow-up is important to check the function of the remaining kidney and maintain overall health.
Living with a single healthy kidney is usually not a problem — most individuals maintain a normal, active lifestyle without complications.
Final Thoughts
A nephrectomy can be a life-saving procedure for those facing serious kidney conditions. With modern techniques and access to trusted clinics in Istanbul Turkey, patients around the world now benefit from safe, effective, and affordable options for kidney removal surgery in Turkey.
If you’re considering this procedure, consult with a specialized medical advisor or contact a reputable healthcare facilitator like Turquie Santé to explore your treatment plan in Turkey.
