Continuous evaluation for retroperitoneal hematoma following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy

In this paper we report on a patient with extensive retroperitoneal hematoma due to extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for a renal stone. The patient had a negative history of previous primary renal disease or risk factors for retroperitoneal hemorrhage after ESWL. The hematoma was treated conservatively and it was completely absorbed 9 months after ESWL as evaluated by computed tomography. Gd-DTPA-enhanced dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (dynamic MRI) was performed immediately after formation of the hematoma. The decrease in renal blood flow in the affected kidney could be observed in this patient by dynamic MRI and its time intensity curve.