Instillation of povidone iodine to treat lymphocele and leak of lymph after renal transplantation.

Lymphoceles are common surgical complications of renal transplantation. Recently minimal invasive therapy has been advised. We studied the safety and efficacy of instillation of povidone iodine via transcutaneous catheter for treatment of lymphoceles and leaks of lymph. We studied 10 (four males, six females) kidney transplant recipients who developed lymphoceles after transplantation and four (three males, one female) who developed leaks of lymph. We treated these cases by povidone iodine after placement of transcutaneous catheters with guidance of ultrasound and confirmed the presence of lymph by biochemical analysis. After dilution of povidone iodine to 5% with normal saline, 20cc were instilled and dwelled in the cavity for 30 minute three times daily. The lymph was then allowed to drain by gravity. For the leaks of lymph, which occurred immediately post operation, the catheters were placed during transplantation surgery. All patients were followed up for four months. After one week of instillation, all lymph leaks were completely blocked. Furthermore, nine (90%) cases of lymphocele resolved after 15 days of therapy. We conclude that instillation of diluted povidone iodine for treatment of lymphocele and leak of lymph is safe and effective and it may be considered as first choice for these conditions.