Kidneys
Specialist diagnosis and treatment of kidney conditions including kidney cancer, cysts, PUJ obstruction and blood in the urine.
Understanding the kidneys
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that sit towards the back of the abdomen, one on each side of the spine. They filter waste and excess fluid from the blood to make urine, help regulate blood pressure, balance the body’s salts and minerals, and support healthy red blood cell production.
Urologists focus on the surgical and structural conditions of the kidney — such as tumours, cysts, blockages and stones — and work alongside kidney physicians (nephrologists), who manage medical conditions like chronic kidney disease. Many kidney problems cause few symptoms early on and are first picked up on a scan done for another reason, which is why assessment of any abnormal finding is important.
Conditions we treat
Kidney cancer
Kidney cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the kidney, often forming a solid mass. Many are now found incidentally on imaging while still small and curable.
Often none in the early stages. When present, signs can include blood in the urine, persistent flank (side) pain, or a lump in the abdomen.
Smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and a family history can increase risk.
Small tumours may be monitored or removed while preserving the rest of the kidney (partial nephrectomy); larger ones may need removal of the whole kidney (radical nephrectomy). Both are commonly performed with robotic-assisted (keyhole) surgery. Other options include ablation and, for advanced disease, targeted and immune therapies.
Kidney cysts
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs in the kidney. Simple cysts are very common and usually harmless; complex cysts need closer assessment.
Usually none. Larger cysts can occasionally cause discomfort.
Simple cysts are typically just monitored. Complex or symptomatic cysts may need further imaging or surgery.
PUJ obstruction (pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction)
A narrowing where the kidney joins the ureter, which can block the normal flow of urine and cause the kidney to swell.
Flank pain (sometimes after drinking large volumes of fluid), recurrent infections, or stones.
When treatment is needed, the narrowed segment can be reconstructed with a procedure called pyeloplasty, frequently performed robotically.
Upper-tract (ureteric and renal pelvis) tumours
Cancers can also arise in the lining of the kidney’s collecting system and the ureter.
Blood in the urine is the most common sign.
Depending on the situation, this may involve removing the kidney and ureter together (nephroureterectomy) or kidney-preserving approaches.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
An inherited condition where many cysts develop in the kidneys over time. It is primarily managed medically, with urological input for complications such as stones, infection or bleeding.
A note on kidney stones
Kidney stones are common and have their own dedicated page, including how they form, how they present, and the full range of treatments. See our Stones page for detailed information.
When to see a urologist
Blood in the urine, persistent flank pain, or an abnormal finding on a scan should be assessed. Many kidney conditions are highly treatable, especially when found early.
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please consult a urologist about your individual circumstances.