Transcatheter arterial embolization as therapy of renal angiomyolipomas: the evolution in 15 years of experience.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims at presenting the evolution of the embolization technique in treating renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs) either diagnosed in patients with acute bleeding or discovered accidentally. METHODS: Ten patients with renal AMLs have been through thirteen selective transcatheter arterial embolizations for 15 years. Two patients had tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) with bilateral tumors and were embolized twice. Four embolic materials were employed: PVA particles, Gianturco coils, microspheres and microcoils. Catheterization was achieved by means of 5F Cobra 2 catheters and coaxial microcatheter systems. RESULTS: On an emergency basis, embolization was a first-line treatment. In one case, surgery was necessary; in two patients, a second embolization was performed. When treatment was preventive, a single embolization proved to be sufficient, as well. There was no significant deterioration of the serum creatinine levels in the post-embolization period. CONCLUSION: Selective arterial embolization is a rather safe and effective technique to treat AMLs both urgently and preventively. Different embolic materials can be employed. Microspheres and microcatheters stand for new promising materials.

Endovascular treatment of renal arteriovenous malformations.

We report a case of renal arteriovenous malformation treated with superselective endovascular embolization using a light mixture of n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate and Lipiodol. Diagnostic imaging modalities and treatment methods are discussed. In conclusion, successful superselective embolization should be the standard of care.

Effects of superselective embolization for renal vascular injuries on renal parenchyma and function.

AIM: Our objective was to evaluate the outcome of superselective embolization used for treatment of renal vascular injuries on renal parenchyma and renal function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 1999 and December 2001, 6 consecutive patients (five males, one female, mean age 45 years) underwent embolization to treat bleeding from renal vascular injuries, resulting from iatrogenic interventions (4) and blunt abdominal trauma (2). Five patients had increased serum creatinine. Angiography depicted a pseudoaneurysm (PA) in three, PA with arteriovenous fistula (AVF) in one, and active extravasation in two patients. Superselective catheterization was achieved using a 5-F catheter in three, and coaxial microcatheter in the remaining three cases. All lesions were successfully embolized with 0.035" or 0.018" coils. RESULTS: Bleeding was ceased in all patients and did not recur. Mean post-embolization parenchymal ischemic area was 11.7% (range: 0-30%). Imaging follow-up (mean: 12 months, range: 5-23) showed that mean parenchymal infarcted area was 6% (range: 0-15%). Serum creatinine level was normal in all patients one week after the procedure and at the latest follow-up. CONCLUSION: Superselective embolization resulted in permanent cessation of bleeding. Serious parenchymal infarction was prevented and serum creatinine level returned to the pre-bleeding values. Embolization should be considered as the treatment of choice in this patient population.