Complications and Outcomes of Nephrectomy in Renal Disease Management: A Comprehensive Review

Nephrectomy, encompassing both partial and radical approaches, is a cornerstone intervention for treating renal cell carcinoma, benign renal conditions, and other complex renal diseases. Surgical indications are tailored based on tumor size, location, stage, and underlying renal function, with partial nephrectomy preferred for small, localized tumors to preserve renal function. Despite its therapeutic benefits, nephrectomy carries potential complications, including vascular injuries, urinary leaks, infections, and renal function decline, notably acute kidney injury and progression to chronic kidney disease. Additional systemic risks such as thromboembolism and cardiovascular events further impact patient outcomes. Early detection and management of these complications are critical for optimizing survival and quality of life. This review summarizes current indications, surgical approaches, and the spectrum of postoperative complications, emphasizing the importance of individualized patient care to improve clinical outcomes in nephrectomy procedures.