Oncocytomas are difficult to distinguish from malignant tumours and are therefore usually removed, if found no follow up is required. AML occur sporadically but 20% are associated with tuberosclerosis, a rare genetic condition. They are composed of blood vessels, smooth muscle and fat. When they become greater than 4cm, due to the risk of haemorrhage, treatment is usually recommended with either embolization or surgery.
Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery
The word laparoscopy means to look inside the abdomen with a camera or scope. Surgery performed with the aid of these cameras is known as keyhole or minimally invasive surgery. The technique of laparoscopic surgery is now well developed in the field of urology and is now performed routinely for benign and malignant kidney conditions and pelvic cancer surgery. The advantages of this technique are smaller surgical wounds resulting in less pain, lower infection risk and reduced, pain-killer requirements and so a faster return to normal activities including less time off work. The technique is arguably more precise given the magnified view that the cameras offer. Laparoscopic procedures offered by Mr Nuttall include laparoscopic or robotic nephrectomy, pyeloplasty, and varicocele ligation.
The da Vinci Surgical robotic system allows complex surgical procedures to be performed using minimally invasive techniques. Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford is one of only a handful of hospitals in the country to have this system. It is used for urological procedures as well as complex surgical procedures from other surgical specialities.
