• UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
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  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
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Find Location
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866-367-8768
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Robotic Radical Nephrectomy & Nephroureterectomy: Advanced Kidney Surgery at UPNT

10,000+ Robotic Cases Since 2002 | First in Tarrant County with Single-Port Surgery
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At Urology Partners of North Texas (UPNT), we lead the way in advanced kidney surgery
with robotic radical nephrectomy and nephroureterectomy. Using the state-of-the-art da
Vinci Surgical System, our expert robotic urologists offer a minimally invasive alternative to
traditional open surgery, resulting in:

  • Better outcomes
  • Shorter hospital stays
  • Faster recovery times
  • Reduced pain and blood loss

Our surgeons have performed more than 10,000 robotic procedures since 2002, and most
surgeries take place at USMD Hospital in Arlington, which recently celebrated its 20,000th
robotic surgery milestone.
UPNT was also the first in Tarrant County to offer single-port robotic surgery, an
innovative approach available for select patients.

what-is-a-robotic-radical-nephrectomy

What is a Robotic Radical Nephrectomy?

A robotic radical nephrectomy is a minimally invasive surgery to remove the entire kidney, often performed for large kidney tumors or when preserving kidney tissue isn’t possible. In some cases, the adrenal gland (located on top of the kidney) or ureter (the tube that drains urine to the bladder) may also need to be removed, depending on the extent of the cancer.
what-is-a-nephroureterectomy

What is a Nephroureterectomy?

A robotic nephroureterectomy is similar to a radical nephrectomy but includes the removal of the ureter and part of the bladder. This procedure is typically required for urothelial cancer, which affects both the kidney and the ureter. After a nephroureterectomy, patients may need a catheter for several days to allow the bladder to heal.

Why Choose Robotic Surgery for Kidney Cancer?

Compared to traditional open surgery, robotic radical nephrectomy and nephroureterectomy offer significant benefits:
  • Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions mean less scarring and a faster recovery.
  • Reduced Pain: Less postoperative discomfort compared to open surgery.
  • Minimal Blood Loss: Robotic precision helps reduce bleeding.
  • Shorter Hospital Stay: Most patients stay for 1–2 nights.
  • Lower Infection Risk: Smaller incisions lower the chance of surgical site infections.

Your Journey: From Diagnosis to Recovery

At UPNT, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from diagnosis to recovery. Here’s what you can expect:

1

Initial Consultation

  • During your first visit, you’ll meet with one of our expert robotic urologic surgeons, who will:
  • Review your medical history and symptoms
  • Examine your imaging studies (CT scans or MRIs)
  • Explain your condition and discuss treatment options

2

Determining Candidacy for Robotic Nephrectomy or Nephroureterectomy

  • Not all patients are candidates for a partial nephrectomy. When a tumor is large or centrally located, removing the entire kidney may be necessary.
Factors We Consider:
  • Tumor Type, Size, and Location
  • Overall Kidney Function
  • General Health and Medical History
  • If the ureter is affected by cancer, a robotic nephroureterectomy may be recommended.

3

Pre-Surgical Preparation

  • Before surgery, we’ll ensure you’re in the best possible health. This may involve:
  • Cardiology Clearance for patients with heart conditions
  • Consultations with Specialists (pulmonology, internal medicine)
  • Additional Tests to assess your surgical readiness
  • Your UPNT surgery coordinator will help schedule any necessary consults.

Understanding the Robotic Radical Nephrectomy Procedure

Our skilled surgeons follow a meticulous, step-by-step process to ensure the best outcomes:

1. Patient Positioning and Port Placement

  • The patient is positioned for optimal access to the kidney.
  • Small incisions (1 cm) are made for robotic instruments.

2. Kidney Exposure and Imaging

  • Using live ultrasound, the surgeon precisely identifies the kidney and surrounding structures.

3. Kidney Removal

  • The entire kidney is carefully removed, along with the adrenal gland or ureter if necessary.
  • The kidney is extracted through a slightly larger incision.

4. Final Checks and Closure

  • Bleeding is controlled, and the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures.

The da Vinci Advantage: Precision and Innovation

The da Vinci Surgical System offers enhanced capabilities for our surgeons, including:
  • High-Definition 3D Vision: Provides a magnified, clear view of the surgical area
  • Robotic Precision: Instruments mimic the surgeon’s hand movements for greater control.
  • Tremor Filtration: Ensures precise, stable movements.
With this technology, our surgeons achieve exceptional accuracy and control, resulting in better outcomes for our patients.
single-port-robotic-surgery-cutting-edge-innovation

Single-Port Robotic Surgery: Cutting-Edge Innovation

UPNT was the first in Tarrant County to offer single-port robotic surgery—a technique that uses a single incision for even less scarring and faster recovery.

Is Single-Port Surgery Right for You?

Single-port surgery is available for select patients, depending on the size and location of the tumor and their anatomy. Your UPNT surgeon will determine if you’re a candidate.

Recovery and Postoperative Care

Most patients are amazed at how quickly they recover after robotic nephrectomy.

What to Expect After Surgery:

  • 1–2 Nights in the Hospital
  • Minimal Pain
  • Back to Normal in 2–3 Weeks
Patients undergoing nephroureterectomy may need a catheter for up to a week to ensure proper bladder healing.

Why Choose UPNT for Robotic Kidney Surgery?

Here’s What Sets Us Apart:

  • 10,000+ Robotic Surgeries since 2002
  • USMD Hospital in Arlington: Home of the 20,000th robotic surgery milestone
  • State-of-the-Art Technology: Featuring da Vinci Xi, DV5, and single-port systems
  • Experienced Surgeons: Among the most experienced robotic urologists in DFW
  • Personalized Care: Tailored treatment plans for every patient

Take the Next Step

If you’ve been diagnosed with a condition requiring a radical nephrectomy or nephroureterectomy, trust UPNT’s
expert team.
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