Options for Larger Renal Tumors. Patients with renal (kidney) tumors larger than 4 centimeters may need to have the entire kidney removed to prevent tumor recurrence. The primary procedure performed by Chris Teigland, MD and Kent Kercher, MD (Chief of Clinical Activities for the Carolinas Laparoscopic & Advanced Surgery Program) is the radical laparoscopic nephrectomy. Clinical data from their patients demonstrate that laparoscopic nephrectomy results in fewer hospital days, fewer complications (such as blood loss) and more rapid recovery than open surgery.

In some cases, however, the cancer presents beyond the localized stage initially or recurs following surgery. Advanced kidney cancer commonly affects the lungs, bone, liver, or brain. In advanced cases, patient care may involve other treatment options, including:

• Radiation Therapy
• Immunotherapy (Interleukin-2)
• Chemotherapy

If additional treatment beyond surgery is required, the Carolinas Medical Center multidisciplinary team will discuss these approaches with patients, recommend a course of action and coordinate patient care among our specialists as needed.