BACKGROUND: With an incidence of up to 16%, arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a frequent complication after renal biopsy. METHODS: We report on three cases, where renal biopsy in pediatric and adolescent patients led to various but clinically significant complications. In each patient two cores of renal parenchyma from the upper pole of the renal transplant or the lower pole of the right native kidney, respectively, were obtained with two attempts. RESULTS: Immediate post-bioptic ultrasound did not show any abnormalities. Setting of an AVF was suspected when complications occurred and ultrasound and Doppler studies showed AVF. The diagnosis was confirmed by angiography and occlusion of the fistulae was performed in the same session. CONCLUSION: We conclude that persistent AVF is an uncommon but serious complication after renal biopsy. Well-timed angiography when AVF is suspected can prevent loss of function, especially in transplant recipients.
BACKGROUND: With an incidence of up to 16%, arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a frequent complication after renal biopsy. METHODS: We report on three cases, where renal biopsy in pediatric and adolescent patients led to various but clinically significant complications. In each patient two cores of renal parenchyma from the upper pole of the renal transplant or the lower pole of the right native kidney, respectively, were obtained with two attempts. RESULTS: Immediate post-bioptic ultrasound did not show any abnormalities. Setting of an AVF was suspected when complications occurred and ultrasound and Doppler studies showed AVF. The diagnosis was confirmed by angiography and occlusion of the fistulae was performed in the same session. CONCLUSION: We conclude that persistent AVF is an uncommon but serious complication after renal biopsy. Well-timed angiography when AVF is suspected can prevent loss of function, especially in transplant recipients.