Robotic Partial Nephrectomy (Kidney‑Sparing Surgery)
Robotic partial nephrectomy is a minimally invasive surgery that uses robotic-assisted technology to remove kidney tumours while preserving healthy kidney tissue. The enhanced precision, flexibility and control allow for smaller incisions, reduced blood loss and faster recovery compared with traditional open surgery.
Medically reviewed by Dr Ho Siew Hong
Senior Consultant Urologist
MBBS (NUS), FRCS (Edinburgh, Glasgow), FAMS (Urology), Singapore Board Certified Urologist
Robotic partial nephrectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove a kidney tumour while preserving healthy kidney tissue. Using a surgical robot, the urologist controls wristed instruments and a 3D camera to perform precise dissection, remove the tumour, and reconstruct the kidney (closing blood vessels and the collecting system where needed).
Robotic partial nephrectomy may be suitable for patients with:
- Small to medium-sized kidney tumours (typically ≤5 cm)
- Tumours located in accessible areas of the kidney
- A solitary kidney or tumours in both kidneys
- A need to preserve maximum kidney function
- Enhanced precision and dexterity in tight anatomical spaces
- Smaller incisions, leading to less postoperative pain and scarring
- Reduced blood loss and lower transfusion rates
- Shorter hospital stay and faster return to daily activities
- Improved preservation of healthy kidney tissue and function
- Anaesthesia – General anaesthesia is given.
- Keyhole Access – Several small incisions are made for the robotic ports.
- Robotic Docking – The robotic system is connected and precision instruments inserted.
- Tumour Localisation – Intra-operative ultrasound helps confirm tumour location.
- Tumour Removal – The tumour is excised with a safety margin, using fine robotic instruments.
- Kidney Reconstruction – The kidney is repaired and blood vessels sealed; warm ischaemia time is minimised.
- Specimen Removal – The tumour is placed in a retrieval bag and removed through a small incision.
- Closure – Incisions are closed and dressings applied.
- Hospital stay is typically about 4 days
- Oral pain relief is usually sufficient
- Light activity can resume in 1–2 weeks; more strenuous exercise in 4–5 weeks
- Follow-up imaging at 3 and 6 months to assess kidney function and check for recurrence
- Lifestyle advice on hydration and diet to maintain kidney health
As with any surgery, there are potential risks, including:
- Bleeding or infection
- Injury to surrounding structures
- Urine leakage requiring drainage or stenting
- Temporary reduction in kidney function
- Anaesthesia-related complications
Book a Consultation
If you have been diagnosed with a kidney tumour or have abnormal imaging results, early specialist review can help preserve kidney function and expand your treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the total removal of tumor during this procedure will be curative and the excised cancer can be sent for pathology analysis.
The procedure typically lasts 2–3 hours, depending on tumour size and location.
Most patients return to light activities within 1 week and full duties by 4–6 weeks.
A temporary drain may be placed to remove excess fluid and is usually removed within 1–2 days.
Robotic surgery offers greater instrument articulation and 3D visualization, enhancing precision over standard laparoscopy.
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