Related Experiment Videos
Ureteric obstruction requiring nephrectomy after uterine fibroid embolization
Stephen Lazarou1, Sender Herschorn
1Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The Canadian Journal of Urology
|March 22, 2005
Summary
Uterine fibroid embolization rarely causes ureteric obstruction, leading to a non-functioning hydronephrotic kidney. This case required surgical intervention for symptom management.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Interventional Radiology
- Gynecology
Background:
- Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a common procedure for treating symptomatic uterine fibroids.
- Complications from UFE are generally infrequent and manageable.
- Potential complications include post-embolization syndrome, infection, and, rarely, urinary tract issues.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing UFE for uterine fibroids developed ureteric obstruction.
- This obstruction resulted in a non-functioning hydronephrotic kidney, a previously unreported complication.
- The patient presented with significant symptoms necessitating medical intervention.
Findings:
- The case highlights a rare but serious complication of UFE: ureteric obstruction.
- The obstruction led to severe hydronephrosis and subsequent non-function of the kidney.
- Surgical intervention was required to manage the patient's symptoms and the obstructive uropathy.
Implications:
- This report expands the known spectrum of potential complications following UFE.
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for urinary tract complications after UFE, even if rare.
- Further investigation may be warranted to understand the mechanism and incidence of this specific complication.