The value of transvascular embolization in the treatment of renal carcinoma

In a consecutive series of 62 patients with renal carcinoma transvascular embolization has been evaluated in regard to its limitations, complications, influence on the surgical procedure and success of treatment. Of 47 planned embolizations 36 could be accomplished. Total embolization was achieved in 29 of the 36 cases (81 per cent). One case was complicated due to displacement of the embolization material to the femoral artery. The subjective impression of the surgeon was that embolization facilitated nephrectomy, although this could not be proved by objective measurement of the duration of operation and perioperative blood loss. Survival after embolization and nephrectomy was no better than after nephrectomy alone.