Medically reviewed by
M.Ch. Urology (CMC Vellore) · Fellowship in Urologic Oncology & Robotic Surgery (University of Miami) · NMC Reg. No. NMC/2005020914
This page is for general health information and education only. It does not replace a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor who has examined you.
Partial nephrectomy removes only the kidney tumour and keeps the rest of the kidney working. Radical nephrectomy removes the whole kidney. For most small kidney cancers, guidelines prefer partial nephrectomy when it can be done safely, because it protects long-term kidney function.
Side-by-side comparison
| Partial nephrectomy | Radical nephrectomy | |
|---|---|---|
| What is removed | Tumour with a margin of normal tissue | Entire kidney (sometimes with the adrenal gland and nearby nodes) |
| Usually preferred for | Tumours up to 4 cm, and selected tumours up to 7 cm | Large or central tumours, or when the kidney cannot be preserved safely |
| Kidney function | Better preserved | Relies on the other kidney |
| Specific risks | Bleeding or urine leak from the kidney | Lower risk of these, but greater loss of kidney function |
| Hospital stay (robotic) | Usually 2–4 days | |
Who each suits
The decision depends on tumour size and position, kidney function, the other kidney and the patient’s overall health. See kidney cancer treatment options, robotic partial nephrectomy and robotic radical nephrectomy.
References
- EAU Guidelines on Renal Cell Carcinoma, 2025 edition. uroweb.org
- Campbell SC et al. Renal Mass and Localized Renal Cancer: AUA Guideline. J Urol 2021;206:199–208.