What follow-up examinations are required after kidney cancer surgery?
Disease description:
My father-in-law recently underwent surgery for kidney cancer. His doctor advised him to return to the hospital for a follow-up examination one month after surgery. What tests are typically included in postoperative follow-up for kidney cancer?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Luo Yong
Postoperative imaging examinations—such as abdominal and chest CT scans—as well as routine blood biochemical tests are required for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) to assess for metastasis or recurrence. If bone pain develops during recovery, a whole-body bone scan is indicated. As the patient’s condition improves, follow-up imaging may be deferred to every 3–6 months.
