Nephroptosis, or wandering kidney, is a pathological condition characterized by abnormal mobility of the organ, resulting in its displacement below anatomical boundaries. This condition is quite common and requires timely and comprehensive therapy. Treatment of nephroptosis in Israel is conducted according to a comprehensive scheme that includes modern conservative and surgical methods. Israeli nephrologists possess a high level of qualification and extensive experience in providing effective assistance for various kidney diseases and disorders of the urinary system. Nephrology departments in the country's clinics are equipped with the latest therapeutic and diagnostic equipment, allowing for accurate determination of the causes of disorders, the degree and signs of pathology, and the execution of prescribed procedures.
Nephroptosis, or wandering kidney, is a pathological condition characterized by abnormal mobility of the organ, resulting in its displacement below anatomical boundaries. This condition is quite common and requires timely and comprehensive therapy. Treatment of nephroptosis in Israel is conducted according to a comprehensive scheme that includes modern conservative and surgical methods. Israeli nephrologists possess a high level of qualification and extensive experience in providing effective assistance for various kidney diseases and disorders of the urinary system. Nephrology departments in the country's clinics are equipped with the latest therapeutic and diagnostic equipment, allowing for accurate determination of the causes of disorders, the degree and signs of pathology, and the execution of prescribed procedures.
Treatment Methods for the Disease
In a healthy person, the kidneys shift during respiratory movements or physical exertion by no more than the size of one lumbar vertebra. Nephroptosis, diagnosed when the organ descends more than 2-4 centimeters, is an acquired pathological condition that develops as a result of changes in the supporting ligaments of the kidney, weakening of the abdominal wall and lumbar muscles, and reduction of the layer of adipose tissue. Factors that stimulate the development of the disease include heavy physical exertion, lifting weights, lumbar injuries, rapid weight loss, and multiple pregnancies.
According to the current classification, three degrees of pathology are distinguished:
- Grade I — the lower border of the kidney is lowered more than one and a half lumbar vertebrae;
- Grade II — the lower pole is lowered below the anatomical boundary by two lumbar vertebrae;
- Grade III — the lower border is found three or more lumbar vertebrae below the norm.
The selection of methods included in the treatment program depends on the degree of the disease.
Conservative Therapy
At the initial stage of the disease, when a patient is diagnosed with Grade I nephroptosis, conservative treatment is indicated. In many cases, the problem is resolved by wearing an orthopedic corset, supportive bandage, or belt. This prevents the kidney from descending and ensures the organ remains in a stable position. The weakened abdominal and back muscles are strengthened through regular therapeutic exercise. During any physical activities, it is important to remember the need to limit heavy loads. If the disease is caused by significant weight loss, a high-calorie diet is recommended to increase the volume of adipose tissue. Patients are also prescribed a course of therapeutic massage and sanatorium-resort treatment.
In the case of the most common complications, such as cystitis, pyelonephritis, urolithiasis, and elevated blood pressure, medication therapy is prescribed. Various types of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic drugs, and antihypertensive agents are used.
Surgical Treatment
In cases of nephroptosis progressing to Grade II-III, with pronounced symptoms and complications, and the absence of positive results from conservative treatment, surgical intervention — nephropexy — is indicated. During the operation, the mobile kidney is fixed with a mesh made of synthetic fibers, into which the organ is placed like a hammock. The mesh is attached to the lumbar muscle and supports the kidney in a stable, anatomically correct position, while not obstructing its physiological movements. Maintaining normal mobility of the organ is extremely important for the proper functioning of the urinary system.
In Israel, nephropexy is performed laparoscopically using a minimally invasive method. A laparoscope equipped with a camera and microsurgical instruments are introduced through several small incisions. It is noted that laparoscopic interventions are associated with minimal risk of bleeding and other complications, feature a short rehabilitation period, and are well tolerated by patients. After the operation, for a sufficiently long period, the patient is advised to rest in bed, with the foot of the bed elevated to ensure the kidney is maintained in the correct position.
Timely completion of the treatment course often leads to the elimination of painful symptoms and ensures a positive prognosis. At the same time, late consultation with a doctor, diagnosis, and therapy can lead to chronic forms of diseases such as pyelonephritis and hydronephrosis.
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How the Diagnosis of the Disease is Conducted
The modern equipment available in diagnostic centers in Israel allows for the detection of even the slightest changes in the normal position of the kidney, determining the characteristics of the pathology necessary for selecting effective treatment methods.
Leading Israeli clinics offer remote video consultations. To do this, it is necessary to submit a request on the medical center's website, send the available examination results and doctors' conclusions to the specified email address. The provided documentation is forwarded to a leading nephrologist, who, after reviewing it, contacts the patient via Skype at a pre-arranged time, answers all questions, and expresses their opinion regarding the diagnosis and treatment methods. If the decision is made to proceed with further treatment in Israel, the first consultation at the clinic is free.
A comprehensive examination of the patient and the development of a treatment program takes no more than three days in Israel.
During the initial consultation, the nephrologist reviews the patient's medical documentation, clarifies the nature and severity of symptoms, conducts a physical examination and abdominal palpation, and prescribes necessary diagnostic procedures.
The examinations listed in the prescriptions are performed:
- Ultrasound of both kidneys — performed in standing and lying positions, this ultrasound allows for the detection of changes in the position of the organ as well as pathological changes in its structure;
- excretory urography — a radiological examination where images are also taken in lying and standing positions;
radiographic studies of the urinary organs;
- angiography of the renal blood vessels;
- CT and MRI;
- detailed urine and blood tests.
The results of the studies are reviewed by a medical council, which includes a nephrologist and specialized specialists. The doctors announce the diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
How Much Does Treatment Cost
The price of treatment, which interests many medical tourists, is determined after the diagnosis is established and the therapeutic program is developed. When undergoing a treatment course in Israel, a patient can save about 30% of the amount required in Western European countries and approximately 50% of the cost of similar services in the USA.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- The qualifications of specialists, many of whom are leading nephrologists in the world.
- Modern medical equipment.
- Minimally invasive surgical treatment.
- Rapid diagnosis.
- Affordable prices.
Timely completion of an adequate therapeutic course ensures recovery and a quick return to normal life. Do not hesitate, contact the clinic and proceed with treatment.