Renal arteriovenous fistula following nephrectomy.

Three cases of postnephrectomy renal arteriovenous fistula are described. A review of the literature shows the rarity of this complication since only 62 cases (including the author's cases) are known. Reported cases have been recognized after intervals up to forty years. The major complication is cardiac failure. Surgical treatment gives satisfactory results, but nonsurgical closure has now become possible. Early diagnosis is easy by auscultation of the loin which constantly reveals a continuous bruit.