What is a renal mass or renal tumor?
A renal mass is a growth on the kidney that may contain cancer. 70% are discovered on an ultrasound, CT, or MRI done for a different reason. Most have no symptoms, and most patient’s have no family history of kidney cancer.
Click here to download a helpful patient guide to kidney masses and kidney cancer.
Is it cancer?
80% of renal masses are cancerous. But if caught early, at a size less than 4 centimeters, there is a very low chance that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
What do I need to do about this mass?
There are several options. This is a decision that Dr. Redrow will make on an individual basis with the patient after reviewing all options, and the risks and benefits of each at our consultation.
Active Surveillance - This is an option where the mass is watched, typically every 6 months with imaging and follow up appointments. This option is best for masses less than 3-4cm in size.
Robotic Partial Nephrectomy - A minimally invasive removal of the mass that leaves the kidney intact. Dr. Redrow will review your images and discuss if this is a good option for you.
Robotic Radical Nephrectomy - A minimally invasive removal of the entire kidney. This is typically done when a partial removal is not possible. Dr. Redrow will review your images and discuss if this is a good option.
What about a biopsy?
Biopsy of the mass can be done but is typically not necessary as even non-cancerous kidney tumors may cause problems if allowed to get very large and so will likely need treatment above a certain size.
Will I need chemotherapy or radiation?
Most patients are cured with surgery alone, other treatments are most often only done if there has been spread of the cancer to other parts of the body.
Why should I see Dr. Redrow for my kidney mass/tumor?
At Gulf Coast Urology you will be treated by Dr. Redrow an experienced, fellowship trained Urologist who specialize specifically in the care of cancer treatments. Dr. Redrow is dedicated to bringing patients the best, and most up to date care possible.
Unlike a large medical center where you may be cared and operated on by rotating trainees with different levels of experience at Gulf Coast Urology every decision, surgery, and treatment will be personally handled by Dr. Redrow a board certified, fellowship trained urologist.
Ease of Access. You don’t have to navigate a massive complex of offices and hospitals. Gulf Coast Urology has two convenient locations at our affiliated medical centers, one on the campus of St. Joseph Medical Center in Downtown Houston, and one on the campus of Methodist Clear Lake Hospital.
Why should I have my kidney surgery with Dr. Redrow?
Dr. Redrow has trained and practiced at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Southern California, and USMD Cancer Center - he had been trained by and practiced with Urologists who are pioneers in the field of robotic surgery. He has personally performed over 300 robotic operations since entering practice.
We utilize the DaVinci Xi robots dedicated for urology procedures. These are the latest, and most advanced surgical robots on the market.
Guaranteed less pain and faster recovery. Early Recovery After Surgery or ERAS is a ground breaking technique of starting patients on non-narcotic pain prevention medications before and after surgery. What does that mean for you? A faster, less painful recovery. Most robotic surgery patients are discharged home the day after surgery, and typically take a few prescription pain pills after they get home. Everyone without exception is placed on this regimen.