Therapeutic embolization of renal cell carcinoma

The technique of embolization of renal cell carcinoma is assessed on the basis of the authors' experience. The procedure is usually envisaged in case of hypervascularized extracapsular tumors, with the purpose of obtaining the preoperative occlusion of the renal artery. Nevertheless, it cannot replace surgery, which can accomplish it with much more safety. The technique of embolization itself, which should be as selective as possible, is also discussed and its clinicobiological (immunological) implications are introduced.