Selective arterial embolization in patients with tumor of only kidney

Purpose: to evaluate the efficacy and safety of selective arterial embolization in patients with tumors of the only kidney.

Materials and methods: in our clinic we performed embolization in 9 patients with median age of 56 years (range from 49 to 65 years) from 1999 to 2007. The tumor of the only kidney was diagnosed 1—27 years after (median time interval 11 years) contralateral nephrectomy performed for renal cell carcinoma (n=6), hydronephrosis (n=2) and cystic disease (n=1).

Maximal dimensions of tumor in the remnant kidney ranged from 2 to 9 cm (median 5,0±1,7 cm). Selective embolization of arteries feeding the tumor was carried out by polyvinyl-alcohol particles with diameter 0,1 mm, finely sliced haemostatic sponge, ethanol of 96° mixed with lipidol in 2 to 1 proportion, fragments of metallic spirals.

Results: no complications after selective arterial embolization were observed. After the procedure body temperature elevation up to 38° C and moderate pain syndrome in the projection of embolized kidney were seen for a short period of time. Insignificant elevation of serum urea and creatinine were registered in 2 of 9 patients.

In 1 month after embolization reduction of tumor volume was registered in 5 patients and stabilization — in 4 patients. During follow up angiography repeated embolization was carried out to 4 of 5 patients. At present 8 of 9 patients are alive with follow up times ranging from 1 to 7 years. One patient died after 7 month after procedure due to progression of disease.

Conclusion: selective arterial embolization is effective and safe modality of treatment of patients with tumor of the only kidney.