[Current status of transcatheter arterial embolization in urology]

We report our experience of 155 transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) procedures performed over a period spanning 12 months. The changes relative to the therapeutic approach in renal tumors are discussed. Palliative TAE has increased in comparison to presurgical TAE and the range of possibilities in benign renal pathological conditions has been extended (trauma, hemorrhage, hypertension, etc.). The morbidity ascribable to this technique continues to be low. New embolization materials (ethanol, fine particles, etc.) that are more effective and produce less side effects have become available. To date, TAE continues to be a highly effective therapeutic modality with specific indications and scant morbidity.