Partial nephrectomy without prior arterial embolization in a case of giant renal angiomyolipoma

This is a case of giant renal angiomyolipoma treated with partial nephrectomy without pre-embolization of the supplying arteries.

The patient presented for regular checkup, a mass in the left flank was found on examination. No other symptoms were present. No history of medical or surgical importance was found.

CT scan revealed a heterogenous mass in the left kidney at the upper pole. The treatment options were discussed with the patient and he opted for complete removal of the mass. Partial nephrectomy was done without pre embolization of the arteries. The procedure went without complications, the blood loss was manageable during the operation (200 cc). The patient was admitted for 48 h post operation and was discharged shortly after. The excised mass was sent for histopathological examination, the report was received, the features of the mass was consistent with angiomyolipoma without other types of malignant masses present.

The takeaway is that partial nephrectomy provides a convenient option for treatment of giant renal angiomyolipomas. Preservation of the renal function, reduction of the recurrence risk or re embolization of the supplying arteries makes it a viable alternative for other treatment modalities.