CSA Stage (VII)

1. Which of the following is true about a nephrectomy?

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Medication can be continued, however, it may be stopped prior to the procedure (would be discussed further during preop assessment)
No food at least 6 hrs before the test
Be given a special dye to swallow to make viewing during procedure more clear
May have small sips of water up to 2hrs before the test

Antibacterial fluids used to clean the skin over the affected joint and a small cut (few mm long) is made in the skin next to the joint so that a device (arthroscope) can be inserted
Depending on the type of procedure carried out, discharge is the same day or the next
Takes longer to heal and usually requires a lengthy stay in the hospital
Sterile fluid may be added sometimes to expand it and make it easier to view. The arthroscope also sends images to a video screen or eyepiece, allowing the surgeon to see inside the joint
Local anaesthesia use will numb the area around the joint, but you will feel a slight tugging
Procedure takes 30mins - 2hrs
An arthroscope is a thin, metal tube with a light and camera at one end
Surgeon can remove any unwanted tissue or repair any damaged areas using tiny surgical instruments inserted through the additional incisions
Usually done under general anaesthesia, but may also be done under spinal or local anaesthesia
Special tape or stitches used to close the incisions, covered by a sterile dressing
One or two more incisions will also be made to use an examining probe or other fine surgical instruments

Hospital stay is 1 - 5 days
Injury to surrounding tissue
Infections are possible (antibiotics will be given before the procedure to minimize the risk)
To remove the affected kidney (this may be part [partial nephrectomy] or all [radical nephrectomy] of your kidney) with the aim of eliminating the cancer from the body
The procedure is known as an open nephrectomy, which means that the kidney will be removed through a large incision (cut) in your abdomen
Some patients experience shoulder pain and abdominal bloating for 24hrs after operation (mild painkillers are usually required)
Small first of blood clots (DVT or PE)
Bleeding (may require a blood transfusion)

Air will be pumped into your bowel through the colonoscope to inflate it slightly, which gives the doctor a better view through your bowel. They are able to rotate the tip so that it follows the curves in your bowel
You will usually be awake during the procedure
Takes 2 - 3hrs long
Will be asked to lie on left hand side and bed knees, where they will first use a finger to exam you through the anus and then gently insert the colonoscope
Samples of tissue may need to be removed during the procedure if found
You may be offered a sedative (IV - injected into your vein in your hand), or painkillers to help you relax and be as comfortable as possible
Lubricating jelly may be used to make the insertion as easy as possible, but you may still have a bit of discomfort
Images from the camera at the end of the colonoscope will appear on a monitor

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