CT AFTER ENUCLEATION OF RENAL-CELL CARCINOMA

Computed tomography (CT) was performed in 28 patients 2 weeks to 120 m onths after enucleation of renal cell carcinoma. The postoperative def ect could be exactly localized in all patients. A wedge-shaped (N = 11 ) or concave (N = 9) morphology was typical. No dependence between mor phology of the defect and localization or size of the tumor or the ope rative technique was observed. The defects were smaller (1.9 cm) than the original prominent tumors (3.6 cm). Defect size was dependent on t he operative technique: closure by suture of the renal capsule in smal ler defects or by fat flap in larger ones. Postoperative hematomas or delayed perfusion in the adjacent parenchyma were seen in five patient s. Tumor recurrence was correctly diagnosed in one patient.