[Complications of CT guided lumbar sympathectomy: our own experiences and literature review].

AIM

To review the complications of CT guided lumbar sympathicolysis (CTLS) on the basis of our own experience and the available literature.

METHODS

241 CTLS were performed by a standard technique according to Haaga's method. Clinical follow-up revealed 4 serious complications; these were analysed and compared with published cases.

RESULTS

Amongst our patients there were three fibrotic ureter stenoses and one retroperitoneal abscess. Analysis of the serious complications described in the literature indicates that introduction of CT guided lumbar sympathicolysis has reduced the severity and frequency of complications as compared with surgical and "blind" procedures. With CTLS, no deaths due to the procedure have been reported in the literature. The results indicate that damage to the ureters can be caused by substances used for the neurolysis.

CONCLUSION

Provided certain safeguards are obeyed, CTLS is a very save treatment. However damage to the ureter may follow even when the procedure was technically satisfactory. Therefore, sonographic control of the kidneys after three months is recommended.