Adequacy and complication rates with 14- vs. 16-gauge automated needles in percutaneous renal biopsy of native kidneys.

In performing percutaneous renal biopsy (PRB) of native kidneys, an increasing use of 16-gauge automated biopsy needles has been observed. We compare the adequacy and safety of PRBs in adults performed with a 14-gauge (n = 82) vs. 16-gauge (n = 55) automated needle using real-time ultrasound (US) from 1/2010 to 12/2013. Baseline clinical and laboratory data along with outcome data (renal US 1-hour postbiopsy, biopsy adequacy, and safety) were collected prospectively. There was no difference in age, gender, blood pressure, serum creatinine, or pre-PRB hemoglobin at baseline for PRBs performed with a 14- vs. 16-gauge needle. The number of glomeruli obtained per biopsy was similar (29 ± 11 vs. 31 ± 14, p = 0.6) and adequate tissue for diagnosis was obtained in 99% and 100% of biopsies. The clinical complication (8.5% vs. 9.1%, p = 1.0), transfusion (7.3% vs. 7.2%, p = 1.0), and embolization (3.7% vs. 1.8%, p = 0.6) rates were not significantly different for 14- vs. 16-gauge needles, but by routine renal US 1-hour post-PRB, a perinephric hematoma was demonstrated more often in biopsies done with the 14-gauge needle (39% vs. 22%, P 0.04). Thus, while the success of PRB of native kidneys is similar for both needle gauges, the potential for complication may be less using a 16-gauge automated needle.

Acquired cystic kidney disease and renal tumor.

Immunosuppression is a well-known risk factor for malignancy. Renal transplant patients are at high risk for cancer in the native kidneys especially in the presence of acquired cystic disease. We report a case highlighting the importance of screening for renal malignancy in renal transplant patients.

Antithrombotic therapy in end-stage renal disease.

The delicate balance of risk vs. benefit of using antiplatelet and antithrombotic agents in the general population is well established. The decision to use these agents in the end stage renal disease (ESRD) population remains complex and difficult. The concomitant association of a prothombotic state with high risk of bleeding in the ESRD population requires individualization and careful clinical judgment before implementing such therapy. There remains a paucity of clinical trials and lack of substantial evidence in literature for safe and effective use of antithrombotic drugs in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease. The current review summarizes the pros and cons of using antiplatelet and antithrombotic agents in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events, evaluate the risks with routine use of anticoagulation for cerebrovascular stroke prevention with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and role of newer oral anticoagulants as alternate agents in the dialysis population.