Historically, the regular donor nephrectomy required a long incision with removal of a rib, to allow the surgeon access to the kidney, blood vessels and ureter. Hospitalization of about 5-7 days is necessary. Nonetheless, this operation has been performed thousands of times, providing a safe, reliable way of removing the donated kidney.
"Mini-incision" Live Donor Nephrectomy is similar to the conventional method in its approach to the kidney, but does not include any rib resection and is done through a much smaller incision (7-9cm). Post-operative pain is less and the incision is cosmetically more acceptable. This approach is another option we use (in addition to our laparoscopic method) for the donor.
The new kidney is placed low in the right or left groin area.
Diseased kidneys are not removed unless necessary.
Complications
Wound infection is the most common complication other than the procedure, and can usually be treated as an outpatient. Because the operation is performed alongside other organs it is theoretically possible that an injury could occur to one of them. Persistent pain, fever, nausea or vomiting should be reported to the surgeon.
Admission and Discharge
Admission takes place two hours before the operation. The operation takes about 3-4 hours. In addition, the time necessary for anesthesia before and after the surgery may be 30-60 minutes. We will call your waiting relatives as soon as the surgery is finished to report on your progress.
You will be allowed to drink a few hours after you wake up and will start light foods the next day. The area of the kidney often slows normal bowel function so return to a normal diet must be cautious. You may be able to go home after 2-3 days, depending on how comfortable you are.
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