Intraarterial digital subtraction arteriography in the management of renal tumors.

Nine patients with renal tumors were studied by intraarterial digital subtraction arteriography (IADSA). Embolization was performed in six patients. IADSA was evaluated on the following practical points: vascular mapping, renal vein visualization, and embolization. Vascular mapping by IADSA was satisfactory in eight patients. The limitation of the field of view was the major restricting factor, and a second opacification was necessary in two cases. One case with multiple renal arteries was unacceptable as the lowest renal artery was missed. Renal vein visualization by IADSA with renal artery injection was not reliable due to misregistration artifacts caused by bowel gas. Embolization with IADSA was satisfactory. Significant reductions in contrast load and procedure time were achieved. IADSA was found to be an effective tool in vascular mapping and embolization of renal tumors. Selective renal arteriography to visualize renal veins was better performed with conventional techniques.