Renal embolization is a minimally invasive medical procedure that intentionally blocks blood flow to a specific part of the kidney. This interventional radiology technique uses a catheter to deliver materials that obstruct blood vessels. Its purpose is to deprive target areas, such as tumors or sites of bleeding, of blood supply, achieving therapeutic effects without open surgery.
Reasons for Renal Embolization
Renal embolization addresses various kidney conditions by cutting off blood supply. It commonly manages kidney tumors, such as renal cell carcinoma and benign angiomyolipomas. Embolization can reduce tumor size or control associated bleeding.
The procedure also treats arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) or fistulas within the kidney. These abnormal connections can cause excessive blood flow. Embolization seals off these vascular anomalies and controls severe kidney bleeding.
Sometimes, embolization reduces a kidney’s size or blood supply before surgical removal (nephrectomy). This aims to make the surgery safer and less complex by minimizing blood loss.
The Embolization Procedure
Before the procedure, patients receive instructions, such as fasting and hydration. Medications, especially blood thinners, are reviewed for safety. Local anesthesia is administered at the insertion site (often the groin), along with conscious sedation for comfort.
A small incision is made, and a thin catheter is inserted, often into the femoral artery. Using X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy), the interventional radiologist guides the catheter to the renal artery.
Once at the target area, contrast dye is injected. This dye makes blood vessels visible, allowing identification of the specific vessel to be blocked. Embolic agents (e.g., coils, particles, liquid agents) are then delivered through the catheter. These materials permanently block the targeted blood vessel.
After deployment, imaging confirms successful blockage. The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. The procedure takes one to three hours, depending on complexity.
What to Expect After Embolization
After the procedure, patients are moved to a recovery area and monitored for several hours. Pressure is applied to the catheter insertion site to prevent bleeding. Most patients stay overnight, though some are discharged the same day.
Patients often experience “post-embolization syndrome,” with symptoms like flank pain, low-grade fever, nausea, and vomiting. These normal symptoms are managed with pain and anti-nausea medication. Discomfort usually subsides within a few days to a week.
Most individuals return to normal activities within one to two weeks, depending on the embolization’s extent and their health. Follow-up appointments, often with imaging (CT or MRI), assess embolization success. Imaging monitors the treated condition and confirms the desired outcome, like tumor shrinkage or bleeding cessation.
Important Considerations
While generally safe, renal embolization carries some potential considerations. Patients may experience localized pain or bruising at the catheter insertion site. Rare risks include infection, allergic reaction to contrast dye, or injury to surrounding tissues.
The decision for renal embolization follows a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition and health. This ensures the procedure is appropriate and offers the best outcome. Interventional radiologists, specializing in image-guided, minimally invasive treatments, perform the procedure, ensuring precision and safety.