Renal artery embolization for benign obstructive uropathy.
OBJECTIVE
We demonstrate safety of renal artery embolization as an alternative to nephrectomy in symptomatic patients with obstructed, poorly functioning kidneys who are unfit for surgery.


METHODS
We performed renal artery embolization in 2 medically unfit patients with benign obstructive uropathy and poorly functioning kidneys. The affected kidney was initially drained with a nephrostomy tube and the kidney was then selectively embolized using absorbable gelatin sponge particles and Gianturco coils. The nephrostomy tube was removed before hospital discharge.


RESULTS
Urine production by the affected kidney ceased and symptoms resolved.


CONCLUSIONS
Renal artery embolization with antegrade drainage is a safe alternative to surgery in unfit symptomatic patients with benign obstructive uropathy and poorly functioning kidneys.
Toussi
H
H
Department of Urology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, United Kingdom.
McConnell
C
C
Srinivasan
V
V
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004322:Drainage; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D012077:Renal Artery; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000209:etiology