New kidney immobilization method for percutaneous renal biopsy technique in cats: Operational aspects and complications

Abstract

PURPOSE: Evaluate a new immobilization kidney method for collecting blind percutaneous renal biopsies (RB) in healthy cats. METHODS: Ten cats were biopsied by a modified blinded percutaneous technique using semi-automated needles. Were evaluated the operational aspects of the technique, its complications, and the quality of the obtained samples. The evaluation included physical examination, hemogram, urinalysis, abdominal ultrasound, renal function, and histopathology of the biopsy specimens. RESULTS: The developed technique was fast and easy to perform; it required two operators, and the right kidney was elected for specimen collection. After the RB, a decrease in hematocrit levels was observed in addition to hematuria and perirenal transient hematoma; however, no clinical consequences were observed, and normal parameters were restored within 48 hrs. There were no major complications or deaths, alterations in the physical examination or renal function, or signs of infection. Of the samples, 95% revealed the presence of renal tissue, and in 100% of the cats the samples were of diagnostic quality. CONCLUSION: The technique was easily performed, provided adequate material for diagnosis with minimal transient complications.