Preoperative devascularization of advanced renal adenocarcinoma using a sclerosing agent

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is a sclerosing agent used currently as therapy for varicose veins. Animal experiments have demonstrated this drug to be a useful agent for renal tissue destruction. We have used sodium tetradecyl sulfate with or without steel coils for preoperative renal devascularization in 6 patients with advanced renal adenocarcinoma. In all patients sodium tetradecyl sulfate effectively caused renal infarction and was tolerated well. No complications were associated with the use of this agent. Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is an efficient fluid embolic agent that can be a useful adjunct to nephrectomy in selected cases.