Background: Transjugular renal biopsy (TJRB) is a new method designed to obtain bioptic specimens of the kidney. It has defined indications in situations where application of the standard percutaneous technique involves an increased risk. It is used in particular in cases with impaired haemocoagulation with a different aetiology. The method was not used so far in this country. The authors describe the initial experience with TJRB.
Methods and results: After cannulation of the right internal jugular vein under continuous skiascopic control a catheter was inserted into the right renal vein. Through the lumen of the catheter a special bioptic needle is inserted. The collection proper of renal tissue is made by the puncture- aspiration technique. The authors performed TJRB in 10 patients, in 8 specimens of the renal cortex were collected, on average seven glomeruli. The histological examination was a significant contribution to diagnosis in seven patients. The development of subcapsular haematoma with a clinical symptomatology was recorded in three patients, other complications were not observed.
Conclusions: TJRB is a new diagnostic method, which with regard to its indications, no doubt, facilitates the diagnosis of glomerulopathies. Although the method is demanding from the technical aspect, if done correctly, it involves little risk. It is well tolerated and reduced the risk of possible complications of renal biopsy.