Purpose: To determine the advantages of using transcatheter sclerotherapy to treat renal allograft-related lymphoceles.
Materials and methods: Eighteen patients first seen with symptomatic lymphoceles secondary to renal transplantation were treated with povidone-iodine percutaneous sclerotherapy. Percutaneous catheters were place by means of sonographic, computed tomographic, or combined fluoroscopic and sonographic guidance. Sclerotherapy was initiated while patients were in the hospital, and the patients then instilled povidone-iodine twice a day at home.
Results: One patient had an inadequate trial period of therapy and was not included in the analysis. Seventeen lymphoceles were adequately sclerosed. Average length of treatment was 35 days. Three lymphoceles recurred and were effectively treated percutaneously. Follow-up studies showed no recurrence 1 month to 2 years after completion of therapy. No patient needed surgery for lymphocele repair.
Conclusion: Because of its safety and efficacy, percutaneous transcatheter sclerotherapy with povidone-iodine should be the treatment of choice in patients with lymphoceles that develop after renal transplantation.