Case report explores renal pseudoaneurysm treatment after PCNL, suggesting early intervention can prevent severe complications.
Introduction: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a standard treatment for renal stones, but delayed hemorrhage from renal artery pseudoaneurysm (RAP) remains a rare yet serious complication. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent hemodynamic failure and renal loss. We present an uncommon case of a renal pseudoaneurysm developing after PCNL. Presentation of case: A 64-year-old male presented with recurrent gross hematuria 1 month after PCNL. He had prior episodes of clot retention requiring cystoscopy and multiple transfusions. On admission, he exhibited persistent hematuria, anemia, and impaired renal function. CT angiography revealed a suspected vascular injury in the posteroinferior aspect of the right kidney. Cystoscopy showed no urological source of bleeding, raising suspicion of a vascular lesion. Selective renal angiography confirmed a pseudoaneurysm of the posteroinferior segmental artery, which was successfully treated using super-selective coil embolization. At follow-up, hematuria resolved completely, and renal function stabilized. Discussion: Delayed hematuria after PCNL should raise a concern for RAP, particularly when endoscopic evaluation is negative. Selective angioembolization offers an effective, nephron-sparing control of bleeding with low morbidity. Conclusion: Selective coil embolization is a safe and effective first-line treatment for post-PCNL pseudoaneurysm. Early imaging and prompt management are crucial to prevent severe complications and preserve renal function.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Darwis et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: