Experience with lymphoceles after renal transplantation

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Urology
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Perirenal lymphoceles are uncommon post-renal transplantation complications.
• Early identification and management are crucial for preserving graft function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the incidence, diagnosis, and management of perirenal lymphoceles in renal transplant recipients.
• To highlight key diagnostic indicators and effective treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 215 renal transplant patients.
• Analysis of diagnostic methods including excretory urography with tomography and B-scan ultrasound.
• Evaluation of treatment outcomes for drainage procedures.

Main Results:

• Six patients (2.8%) developed perirenal lymphoceles between 5 weeks and 14 months post-transplant.
• Symptoms included decreased renal function, abdominal mass, leg edema, fluid retention, and hypertension.
• Diagnostic imaging successfully delineated lymphoceles.
• Drainage procedures restored renal function and blood pressure.

Conclusions:

• Perirenal lymphoceles can significantly impair renal function and present with various clinical signs.
• Excretory urography and ultrasound are valuable diagnostic tools.
• Surgical drainage, particularly marsupialization, is the preferred definitive treatment.