Kidney Cancer: Split in tumour during excision

 

Hi 

I have just had a robotic partial nephrectomy to diagnose a tumour in my kidney, other option was active surveillance. I made the right choice as the results confirmed papillary Type 1

I have just met with my consultant/surgeon who informed me that it was a complex procedure and unfortunately the tumour tore which I am on the understanding it was when my liver was moved as it was covering the  majority of my kidney and the tumour. He said it was minimal contamination and they performed a washout. This has now put me in the high risk monitoring.

How can he know it was minimal as surely you can’t see cancerous cells? Does it just take one cell from the tumour that wasn’t removed to enter my blood/lymphatic system to start another cancer or secondary?

Has anyone else come across this or know any answers please 

  • Hi Bex1791,

    I'm afraid I'm not able to offer much help with your question - the best thing might simply to be to discuss with your consultant or doctor if you have another appointment.

    If you'd like to discuss anything with our nurses who may be able to offer some support, you can reach them on 0808 800 4040 - Monday-Friday, 9-5.

    I hope you're able to find out more soon and in the meantime try to place trust in your consultant and what they've told you so far.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben

    Cancer Chat Moderator