Renal ablation with absolute ethanol for nonfunctioning hydronephrosis.

Six adult patients underwent renal ablation with absolute ethanol for nonfunctioning hydronephrosis due to various ureteral lesions. The procedure of renal ablation consisted of 3 separate sessions: placement of percutaneous nephrostomy; transarterial embolization of the renal artery with absolute ethanol, and sclerotherapy of the renal pelvis and ureter through nephrostomy with absolute ethanol. Marked shrinkage of the treated kidney was observed in all cases without any major adverse effects throughout the observation period. Renal ablation with absolute ethanol for nonfunctioning hydronephrosis constitutes a safe and less invasive alternative to surgical nephrectomy to preserve the quality of life of the patients.