Final answer:
A nephrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a kidney. It is performed to treat conditions such as kidney cancer or severe kidney damage. Different techniques can be used for this procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nephrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a kidney. The term nephrectomy is derived from the Latin words 'nephr' meaning kidney and 'ectomy' meaning surgical removal. It is typically performed to treat conditions such as kidney cancer, severe kidney damage, or as a part of kidney transplantation.
During a nephrectomy, the surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen and carefully removes the kidney, ensuring that nearby structures and blood vessels are preserved. The remaining kidney is able to compensate for the loss of function.
This procedure may be performed using different techniques, including open nephrectomy, laparoscopic nephrectomy, or robotic-assisted nephrectomy. The choice of technique depends on various factors such as the patient's condition, the size and location of the kidney, and the surgeon's expertise.