Technical aspect in renal artery embolization in renal tumors: A case series

INTRODUCTION: Renal artery embolization aims to reduce blood loss during surgery. Various embolizing agents are available, each of which has its own indications appropriate for various vascular anatomy and renal pathology. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report three cases of renal artery embolization prior to surgical nephrectomy using vascular plug and other embolizing agents. In two cases, complete blood flow occlusion was achieved with minimal blood loss during the subsequent surgery. One case only achieved reduced blood flow, but subsequent nephrectomy and patient recovery was successful. DISCUSSION: Renal artery embolization prior to malignant mass resection is a well-known, potentially beneficial procedure. The rationale that supports this procedure is clear, but its reported outcome in the literature is still inconclusive. It is important to understand its benefits, complications, and pitfalls to achieve better outcome. CONCLUSION: In our cases, renal artery embolization provided satisfactory reduction in bleeding during nephrectomy, and therefore has the potential to be employed as a standard procedure for future surgeries.