Partial ablation of the kidney by intraarterial ethanol in domestic swine.

Partial renal ablation was produced in 15/17 swine kidneys after segmental intraarterial injection of 1-2 ml of 95% ethanol. Complications were seen in 3 kidneys, including reflux of ethanol into nontarget vessels with subsequent total infarction of 2 kidneys, and the development of hydronephrosis in 1 kidney. Strictly selective catheterization and a very slow injection of ethanol are essential to avoid complications. This technique may find clinical application and the possible indications are discussed.