4.3.3 - Part I 3
4.3.3 - Part I 3
Genesis Figueroa
Victoria Fuenmayor
Victoria Guerrero
Amanda Medina
Daniela Padron
Dr. Diaz
Activity 4.3.3
Kidney Donation
Part I: Donating a Kidney
Procedure 1
Work with a partner to brainstorm what steps would be necessary to remove someone’s
kidney. Think back to what you know about the kidney form HBS. Write down your ideas
in your laboratory notebook.
Kidney removal surgery, whether performed laparoscopically or through open methods, involves
precise incisions and meticulous manipulation of muscle, fat, and tissue. Laparoscopic surgery
employs a few small incisions, typically no larger than 1 inch each, while open surgery requires
larger incisions, up to 12 inches long. The surgeon utilizes specialized tools, including a
laparoscope with a camera, to access and visualize the kidney. Depending on the procedure,
either part or all of the kidney is removed, with the ureter and blood vessels carefully detached
beforehand. Laparoscopic surgery may result in faster recovery and less postoperative pain
compared to open surgery, despite potentially longer procedure durations. Regardless of the
approach, kidney removal surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting,
ensuring patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure, which can last three or more
hours.
• Why might a patient still prefer to have an open procedure instead of a laparoscopic
procedure?
Patients may choose open surgery over laparoscopic because of complex medical conditions,
the need for more visibility, specific surgeon recommendations, or health issues like scar
tissue that complicate laparoscopic procedures.