Hypernephroma embolisation--is it worthwhile?

Transcatheter embolisation was performed in 16 patients with hypernephroma, using either Oxycel, Gelfoam, or steel wire coil(s). Thirteen patients proceeded to early nephrectomy. Surgery was facilitated in four patients with large hypervascular tumours, three of whom had vena caval occlusion. Patients with small, or only moderately vascular tumours, did not benefit from the technique as assessed at nephrectomy. The technique was used as a palliative procedure in three patients, haematuria stopped in two, and abolition of high-output heart failure was achieved in one. Owing to the danger of this technique, it is suggested that its use be restricted to (a) rendering patients with large hypervascular tumours more suitable for surgery, and (b) in palliation of inoperable patients who have symptoms such as severe haematuria. The effect of the technique on survival time remains uncertain.