Renal arteriovenous fistulas.

A review of the literature reveals that aggressive treatment of symptomatic intrarenal arteriovenous fistulas, whether by surgical or radiologic techniques, is generally indicated. The exception is those fistulas which result from closed renal biopsy since these usually heal spontaneously. The ultimate goal of any form of therapy is the maximal preservation of renal tissue. Methods of treatment are discussed, and a review of classification, etiology, incidence, symptoms, physiologic consequences, and means of diagnosis is given. A case of post-traumatic intrarenal arteriovenous fistula with ipsilaterally elevated renal vein renin and hypertension, cured by partial nephrectomy, is presented.