Experimental percutaneous renal embolization using BCG-saturated gelfoam

Adult mongrel dogs (20-25 kg) were used to evaluate the administration of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) in conjunction with total renal embolization for possible application in the management of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Kidneys were surgically removed at 1, 2, and 3 weeks postembolization, examined grossly and microscopically, and then compared with kidneys embolized in the same manner without BCG. The procedure stimulated the reticuloendothelial system more than did renal embolization alone, and although a high dose (6 X 10(8) organisms) of BCG was administered, no complications were encountered. These results warrant a clinical trial of this technique in patients with advanced RCC.