An arteriovenous fistula as a complication of percutaneous nephrostomy

Percutaneous nephrostomy has emerged as a substitute for surgical nephrostomy. The complication rate is low, hematuria being one of the most common. Treatment should be conservative while possible since the clot plays an important role in the tamponade of hemorrhage. Arteriovenous fistulas following percutaneous nephrostomy are rare. Diagnosis is by arteriography and treatment is by selective embolization.