[Clinical experiences with arterial embolization of kidney tumors with ethanol]

Based on 584 compiled cases of renal tumour embolization the materials used, the results and complications, are analyzed. The most serious complication proved to be the displacement and dislocation of particles from the embolization. Personal experience with 102 of our patients confirmed these results. In our clinics we have carried out tumour embolization in 20 patients using 95% alcohol since 1980. The first results are presented. The particular advantages of embolization using ethanol are: 1. The high risk of dispersal of particles from an embolization is eliminated. 2. It leads not only to destruction of the vascular system but also of the peripheral tissues as well to an extent rarely seen with the majority of other embolization materials. Attention must also be drawn to the comparatively safe and simple usage of ethanol during embolization.