The kidneys are paired organs residing in the back just under the ribs. Kidney cancer can occur from the outer part of the kidney or the inner lining. The outer cortex of the kidney filters the blood and cancers that arise from this area are commonly called renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Renal cell carcinoma occurs in approximately 55,000 new cases a year, and the incidence is increasing gradually. The inner lining of the kidney, which funnels and drains urine can also be a source for cancer (urothelial or transitional cell carcinoma) that is similar to bladder cancer. 

Both types of cancers require either partial or whole removal of the kidney (nephrectomy) and, in the case of urothelial carcinoma, removal of the ureter drainage tube down to the bladder. These can be performed by a conventional open or laparoscopic approach depending on tumor location and size. There are certain benign tumors of the kidney that in certain circumstances can be diagnosed on X-ray and may not need surgical treatment. Up to 95 percent of solid kidney tumors are malignant (cancerous) and should be evaluated properly. 

Smaller kidney tumors (<4 cm) may not need surgical removal, but can be treated by minimally invasive approaches to ablate (destroy) the tumors. Laparoscopic techniques include either freezing (cryotherapy) or heating (radiofrequency) the tumor. The Percutaneous technique (radiofrequency) may be used for certain tumors on the posterior (backside) of the kidney. Certain larger kidney cancers will migrate into the veins and grow up towards the heart. These tumors are still resectable but require more extensive surgery with possible heart bypass if necessary. After surgery, immunotherapy or chemotherapy may be necessary for disease found outside of the kidney. 

Emory University Urology has ongoing research studies for kidney cancer which may involve additional therapies before and after surgery.