Role of Trans-catheter Selective Arterial Embolization in the Management of Renal Angiomyolipomas

Background: Renal angiomyolipoma (AML) is the most common benign renal tumour with incidence from 0.2% to 0.6% of the general population, representing about 3% of all kidneys’ tumours with a strong female predilection. The aim of this work was to assess trans-catheter selective arterial embolization (SAE) role in renal AML management (including control of symptoms and tumour size reduction).

Methods: This prospective minimally invasive trial was conducted on 30 cases with renal AMLs who were managed by SAE and diagnosed with renal AML by CT and/ or US. All patients were subjected to laboratory testing (complete blood count (CBC), coagulation profile, renal and liver function test and urine analysis) and radiological imaging (abdominal US, UECT scan, CECT scan and CTA for renal vessels, gadolinium enhanced MRA and diagnostic catheter angiography).

Results: Both lesions’ volume and maximum diameter after SAE showed highly significant reduction (p<0.001). Serum creatinine and Haemoglobin levels before and after SAE showed no significant changes (P=0.069 and P=0.055) respectively.

Conclusions: SAE is a safe and effective technique in the management of renal AMLs either in emergency or preventively with preservation of renal functions and elimination of the potential risk of nephrectomy.