Radical or partial nephrectomy with existing chronic kidney disease

[Tulum]

Hi I’m looking for any advice, info or reflections to help with my decision making.

I am 63 and have stage 3a CKD. After a rapid drop in eGfr a couple of years ago a combination of medication and watching my diet has kept my level steady and protein leakage is not increasing (to best of my knowledge) At last nephrology appt in Aug eGfr was 58

I also have a small Bosniak 4 cyst on my right kidney which is likely to be malignant. It was found 2 year ago and until this year had not increased in size. Because it’s now growing I had a nuclear scan a few weeks ago. As a result of the scan consultant recommended that the cyst needs to be removed before it gets any bigger and potentially spreads. I fully understand that. However he also said that my right kidney is my more efficient kidney and performs at 57% while left is 43%. Obviously he shared all the potential risks for my 3 options: radical, partial or freeze the tumour.

My anxiety is related to whether a nephrectomy will have a big detrimental effect on my remaining kidney function. Does anyone have experience of similar situation? I am meeting with surgeon on Weds to further discuss my options and I want to be able to ask the pertinent questions so that I feel as confident as possible in decision I make.

Apologies for long post and thank you for taking the time to read it x

[Nyrahs]

About 8 years ago I was diagnosed with kidney cancer. I had a radical nephrectomy. At least a year later I was told that I have stage 3 kidney disease. I have had no issues at all. I get monitored frequently and my numbers have stayed the same.

[Tulum in reply to Nyrahs]

Hi Nyrahs you’ve highlighted my concern. I am already at stage 3 kidney disease and I am anxious about a further drop in kidney function post operation.