Blood Clots in Urine After Kidney Tumor Surgery - Urology

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After a kidney tumor surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience some blood in their urine, known as hematuria. This can be alarming for both the patient and their family, especially when it appears weeks or even months after the procedure. In your father's case, having undergone a Da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery to remove malignant tumors from his left kidney, the appearance of small blood clots in his urine could be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it is important to understand that after any surgical procedure, especially one involving the removal of a tumor, the surgical site may still be healing. Even if the surgery was performed a couple of months ago, there can still be residual effects from the operation. The urinary tract, including the bladder and urethra, can be sensitive after surgery, and minor bleeding can occur as the tissues heal. This is often referred to as "post-operative hematuria" and can be a normal part of the recovery process.

Secondly, the presence of kidney stones can also contribute to hematuria. If your father had stones removed during the ureteroscopy and has another stone in the kidney that has not yet been addressed, it could potentially irritate the lining of the urinary tract, leading to bleeding. Stones can cause inflammation and damage to the urinary tract, resulting in blood appearing in the urine.

Another concern is the possibility of tumor recurrence. While it is less likely for a tumor to grow back so quickly after surgical removal, it is not impossible. The risk of recurrence depends on various factors, including the type of tumor, its grade, and whether it had spread to surrounding tissues. However, given that your father’s tumors were small and there was no evidence of lymphatic or vascular invasion, the likelihood of immediate recurrence is relatively low.

To address your concerns, it is crucial for your father to follow up with his healthcare provider. They may recommend a urinalysis and possibly imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to evaluate the source of the bleeding. This will help determine whether the bleeding is due to healing tissues, kidney stones, or any other underlying issue.

In the meantime, it is advisable for your father to avoid any strenuous activities that could exacerbate the situation, such as heavy lifting or intense physical exertion. Staying well-hydrated can also help flush out the urinary system and may alleviate some irritation caused by stones.

In summary, while the appearance of blood clots in urine after kidney tumor surgery can be concerning, it is not always indicative of a serious problem. It could be related to the healing process, the presence of kidney stones, or, less likely, tumor recurrence. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to determine the exact cause and to ensure appropriate management. Your father's healthcare team will be best equipped to provide guidance based on his specific situation and medical history.