A case of renal artery embolization for Grade 5 renal injury, usually reserved for surgery

Kidney trauma occurs in approximately 1%–5% of all traumas with the male preponderance. The consequences of blunt renal trauma range from a simple contusion or renal hematoma to complete shattering of the organ or avulsion of the vascular pedicle. Recently, there is more focus on conservative management as newer techniques evolve and its currently the preferred approach to most renal injuries; however, surgery is the main treatment modality for avulsion of the renal pelvis, injuries to the vascular pedicle, and life-threatening hemodynamic instability. Renal artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure used in the management of many disease conditions and also to control hemorrhage. We report of a Grade 5 renal injury with hemodynamic instability managed with renal artery embolization which otherwise would have been managed with surgery. A 33-year-old presented with Grade 5 left renal injury and hemodynamic instability after a fall. Computed tomography of the abdomen after resuscitation showed shattered left kidney with disruption of the renal hilum and features suggestive of active bleeding. Due to the hypovolemic nature of the patient, embolization of the renal artery was requested. With anesthetic support and antibiotic cover, the right common femoral artery was punctured and a 5 French sheath inserted. Both left renal arteries were selectively catheterized and embolized to stasis with coils. An Angio-Seal device was deployed in the groin and no immediate complications seen. The patient was discharged few days after. This case report shows that Grade 5 renal artery can also be managed through a minimal invasive procedure to reduce the length of time at the hospital and also reduce the metabolic response of the patient.