Curt Franksson

Operations on the Kidneys

Operations on the kidneys do not differ, in principle, from those on other organs insofar as the necessity of accurate preoperative diagnosis, well-founded indications, satisfactory operative technique, and rational pre- and postoperative treatment is concerned. Since, however, the kidneys are paired organs and have a vital function, specia1 demands are made on the preoperative examination and the choice of operation. It is accordingly essential, even in apparently unilateral involvement, to elucidate with the greatest possible care the morbid anatomy and the function of both kidneys. The surgeon must bear in mind at all times that an operation on one kidney where conservative surgery is envisaged may, of necessity, lead to nephrectomy or to such functional impairment that the outcome will be dependent on the integrity of the contralateral kidney.