Kidney cancer treatment abroad

The main reasons why patients choose kidney cancer treatment abroad:

1. Lack of qualified specialists and modern equipment in home countries. In many cases, patients cannot be offered organ-sparing surgeries, including minimally invasive interventions. There is not always access to immunotherapy, targeted therapies and other innovative techniques that can increase the chances of cure and improve quality of life.
2. High cost of community-based treatment. Patients often find that kidney cancer treatment in their country is very expensive, and insurance companies do not cover all costs or refuse to pay at all. In this case, treatment abroad may be a more economical option, as some countries have lower prices for medical services and better results.
3. The desire to get a second opinion or an alternative treatment option. Sometimes patients do not trust the diagnosis or recommendations of their surgeon and want independent advice from other specialists. Treatment abroad gives such an opportunity, as the patient can apply to several clinics and compare their offers. Also, a person can learn about new treatment methods that are not yet available in his or her country or participate in clinical trials.
4. The desire to combine treatment with a change of scenery. Kidney cancer treatment is a stressful and arduous process that requires a lot of strength and energy. Therefore, some patients want to spend this period in a more comfortable environment. For example, at the seaside or in a country with a more pleasant climate.

Among the countries that are in great demand among patients with kidney cancer, we can distinguish the following:

1. Israel. This is one of the leading countries in the field of oncology, which offers help from qualified specialists. They use modern equipment and innovative treatment methods. In Israel, patients can undergo organ-saving surgeries using the Da Vinci robot, immune and targeted therapy, radiosurgery and other treatments. 
2. Turkey. It is the most popular country for medical tourism. It attracts patients with affordable prices, a high level of service, and quality medicine. In Turkey, patients can undergo diagnosis and treatment of kidney cancer in cooperation with the American Johns Hopkins Medical Center, which is one of the leaders in the field of oncology. 
3. Germany. It is one of the most developed and prestigious countries for kidney cancer treatment. The highest level of medicine, science and technology is available here. In Germany, patients can undergo various types of therapy, which are selected for them by experienced oncologists. 
4. Spain. It is a beautiful and hospitable country for medical tourism, which offers high-quality services, comfort and safety. All modern surgery and drug therapy methods are available to patients in Spain. 
5. India. There is the most affordable country in terms of treatment costs. In India, patients can undergo diagnosis and treatment of kidney cancer in cooperation with leading clinics in the world. Kidney transplantation is also available here at a lower cost than in central and western European countries.

To accurately diagnose kidney cancer, the world’s leading clinics rely only on modern research methods. They allow to determine the presence of a tumor, its characteristics and its stage of development. It is important to know that the accuracy of diagnosis mostly depends on the combination of several methods and detailed analysis of data. 

Examples of key examinations that are prescribed abroad:

• Ultrasound (USG). This method provides an image of internal organs using ultrasound waves. It can help detect a malignant tumor in the kidney and determine its size, shape, and structure.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan. CT scans create detailed images of internal organs using X-rays. This method can give a clearer picture of the location of the neoplasm.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The machine uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of organs. This method can be useful for evaluating the tissue and structure of the tumor in the kidney.
• Ultrasound-guided puncture (US puncture). The doctor can take tissue samples under ultrasound guidance for more accurate examination.
• Biopsy of suspicious tissue. In a biopsy, a small sample from the tumor is examined under a microscope. This helps determine the type of cancer and its sensitivity to medications.
• Pet-computed tomography (PET-CT). This study helps to assess the metastasis of cancer. This device is also used during treatment, which allows you to monitor the patient’s condition and the progress of treatment.
• Blood and urine tests, including tests for oncomarkers.

By combining the results of these tests, foreign doctors are able to establish a diagnosis accurately, determine the stage of the disease, and develop the best treatment plan. Global clinics use advanced techniques to maximize the accuracy of examinations.

Modern techniques of surgical treatment of kidney cancer used in world clinics:

• Robotic nephrectomy. Doctors use a surgical robot to perform precise and minimally invasive surgery.
• Laparoscopic nephrectomy. The surgery is performed through small incisions, minimizing the risk of complications.
• Radiofrequency and microwave ablation. Techniques that involve using radio waves and microwaves to destroy the tumor.

Examples of instruments and devices used in the surgical treatment of kidney cancer abroad:

• Da Vinci – a system for robot-assisted surgery that provides precise movements and improved visibility during intervention;
• Laparoscope – a specialized instrument for performing surgery through small incisions;
• electrosurgical devices – used for coagulation and tissue resection;
• instruments for radiofrequency and microwave ablation – generate appropriate waves to destroy the tumor.

Such instruments and devices allow kidney cancer treatment abroad with minimal impact on the body. Therefore, a crucial factor in selecting a clinic and an oncological surgeon is the ability to undergo surgery with the possibility of rapid recovery.

The process of nephrectomy (kidney surgery) can vary depending on the stage of the cancer, the person’s condition and other medical factors. Let’s take a look at how the procedure may differ at different stages of kidney cancer. This information is based on data from reputable sources, the American Cancer Society and the European Association of Urology.

Examples of nephrectomy at different stages of kidney cancer:

• Early stages (I and II).

Patients are indicated for radical or partial nephrectomy.

Preparation: general tests, MRI or CT scan to assess tumor size and spread.

Procedure: the kidney or part of it is removed through laparoscopic access or open surgery.

Post-operative period: usually short, regular check-ups are recommended.

• Advanced stages (III and IV).

Patients undergo radical nephrectomy with removal of surrounding lymph nodes or tissue.

Preparation: more detailed body scans and additional tests may be done to evaluate metastases.

Procedure: usually, in open surgery, the kidney and neighboring structures are removed.

Post-operative period: long, requires regular medical checks and additional treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy).

In both cases, a multidisciplinary approach is key: oncologists, urologists, radiologists and other specialists are involved. Performing nephrectomy in foreign clinics offers access to advanced techniques and equipment, which can be a key factor, especially in advanced stages of kidney cancer.

For non-surgical treatment of kidney cancer, overseas oncologists use advanced therapies. These methods aim to reduce the oncoprocess and slow down tumor growth without surgical intervention.

Patients in foreign clinics have these options available to them:

• Targeted therapy. Treatment is aimed at blocking specific molecular targets that contribute to the growth of the malignant tumor. Targeted drugs can affect cancer cells’ growth and division processes, preventing them from spreading.
• Immunotherapy. Activates the body’s own immune system to fight atypical cells. Immunotherapy drugs can stimulate immune cells and help them recognize and attack only cancer.
• Angiogenesis-inhibitors. These drugs slow tumor growth by blocking the formation of new blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the neoplasm.
• Targeted radioimmunotherapy. An innovative technique that uses radioactive substances with molecules specific to cancer cells. This allows the radioactive drug to be delivered directly inside the tumor.
• Chemotherapy. It is more often used to control the growth and spread of cancer cells. Chemotherapy drugs can penetrate different parts of the body and have a general effect on cancerous foci.
• Molecularly targeted therapy. Based on understanding molecular changes in cancer cells, this therapy aims to target cancer foci precisely.

Doctors at world clinics carefully analyze each patient and their individual case to select the most effective non-surgical therapy. This approach allows to achieve the best results in the treatment of kidney cancer at different stages of the disease.

Radiotherapy is one of the non-surgical cancer treatment methods that doctors can use to eliminate the pathology. Different types of radiotherapy machines are available to patients in the world’s clinics, each with its own purpose and benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the most advanced technologies used in reputable medical institutions, such as Charité in Germany and Sourasky in Israel.

Types of radiotherapy machines:

• Linear gas pedal (Linac). The most common type of machine can generate high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells.
• Cyber Knife and Gamma Knife. It is a stereotactic radiosurgery system that can very precisely direct the beams at the tumor.
• TomoTherapy. Combines CT scans and radiotherapy for more precise treatment planning.

Treatment abroad for kidney cancer almost always includes radiotherapy. For what purpose it is used by foreign oncologists:

• Symptom control. In advanced stages or in the case of metastatic cancer, irradiation of the neoplasm can be used to reduce pain and improve the patient’s quality of life.
• Preparation for surgery. In some cases, it is performed to reduce the size of the tumor before surgery.
• Postoperative therapy. To destroy possible residual cancer cells after nephrectomy. For localized control of metastases to other organs.

It is important for patients to realize that radiotherapy for kidney cancer treatment abroad is only one element of a comprehensive approach. Its effectiveness and appropriateness depend on many factors, including the stage of the disease and the body’s response to treatment. The equipment itself – how it is maintained and what generation it belongs to – also plays a key role.

Modern foreign clinics offer access to high-tech equipment for radiotherapy and radiation therapy of new modifications. They guarantee safe operation even for pediatric patients and the elderly.

Systemic therapy is a cancer treatment method that works on the whole body, not just the tumor or a specific organ. This approach includes treatments such as chemotherapy, targeting, immuno- and hormone therapy. Unlike surgery or radiotherapy, systemic therapy allows you to act on cancer cells wherever they are in the human body.

Cryotherapy in cancer treatment is a minimally invasive procedure in which surgeons use extremely low temperatures to freeze malignant tumors. This method is used in foreign clinics, especially in Germany and Israel, as an alternative or complement to surgery.

The use of cryotherapy for the treatment of kidney cancer:

• For small tumors. This method is most often recommended for the treatment of small kidney cancer tumors less than 4 cm in diameter. In such cases, the procedure is appropriate if surgery is impossible or not required.
• As an adjunct to other treatments. In some cases, cryotherapy may be combined with other modalities such as surgery or systemic therapy to improve overall outcomes.
• For patients at high risk of surgery. This method may be offered to patients with severe comorbidities for whom surgery poses an increased risk.

Comparing the price of kidney cancer surgery abroad can be complicated and depends on many factors: the type of surgery, the equipment used, the qualifications of doctors and additional medical services. The cost is also influenced by what modern methods of therapy the patient chooses and how long they need to undergo such a course of treatment.

Based on publicly available data, we can draw the following conclusions about the differences in the surgical treatment of kidney cancer abroad in terms of prices:

• Germany: usually the highest cost, approximately €20000-30000. This is due to the most advanced medical care. In facilities such as the University Hospital in Düsseldorf, innovative anti-cancer drugs are available to patients in addition to surgery.
• Israel: similar to Germany in terms of quality, but prices here are slightly lower – around €17000-27000 per surgery. The country has advanced medical centers, including Assuta, known for its state-of-the-art surgical technology.
• Republic of Korea: the average range for surgical treatment is €16000-26000. Modern robotic surgery is also available at clinics such as Samsung.
• Spain: Prices are slightly lower than in Germany, ranging from €15000-25000. Large medical centers like Teknon maintain high European quality standards.
• Turkey: a more economical option for kidney cancer surgery. Prices can range from €10000 to €20000. The best quality and service can be found at large clinics such as Anadolu.
• India: the most affordable option with prices in the €6000-15000 range. Foreign patients are preferred for cancer treatment at BLK (Dr. Kapoor’s Clinic), which is the #1 hospital in the country.

These approximate figures are subject to change depending on the rising cost of medicines and surgical consumables. It is also worth keeping in mind that these prices do not always include additional fees such as pre-operative exams, post-operative care and medications. To find out about package offers from foreign clinics, leave a request on the Experts Medical website. The company’s consultant will choose the best option for kidney cancer treatment abroad in terms of price and conditions of stay.

Experts Medical has been cooperating with leading clinics in Europe, Turkey, Israel, the Republic of Korea and other countries for over 5 years. The company’s coordinators assist patients on such issues as:

• choosing a foreign doctor for cancer diagnostics and treatment;
• organization of online consultations to draw up an individual therapy plan;
• assistance in transferring medical documents to a foreign hospital;
• booking tickets and a hotel near the medical center;
• support at all stages of treatment.

Contacting Experts Medical will allow you to choose the most suitable option for kidney cancer treatment abroad.