Subcapsular Renal Hematoma Following Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy: An Uncommon Complication of a Common Procedure-A Report of Two Cases.

Abstract

Objective: To highlight the unusual complication of subcapsular renal hematoma (SRH) after a seemingly simple ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL), to try and identify the predisposing factors that lead to this complication, and steps that can be taken to further decrease the incidence of this rare but potential life-threatening complication. Methods: We highlight two cases of obstructed ureteral stones with upstream hydronephrosis who presented with colicky pain. Both underwent URSL with 8F/9.8F semirigid ureteroscope and were found to have postprocedure SRH. Results: Both our patients were managed conservatively with culture-directed intravenous antibiotics. One patient needed intervention in the form of aspiration of the hematoma. Follow-up ultrasound revealed complete resolution of the hematoma in both the cases and are doing fine on follow-up. Conclusion: Various risk factors have been identified, which predispose an individual to this complication and all endourologists must take certain precautionary measures such as decreased operative time and perfusion pressures, treating urinary tract infections and preoperative optimization of hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) to further decrease the incidence of SRH. Management is conservative in majority of cases with percutaneous drainage and antibiotics, with surgery being reserved for hemodynamically unstable patients.