Renal Artery Angioplasty

Renal Artery Angioplasty

Overview

Renal artery angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat renal artery stenosis, a condition in which the arteries supplying blood to the kidneys become narrowed due to atherosclerosis or other vascular diseases. This procedure helps restore normal blood flow to the kidneys, improving kidney function and controlling high blood pressure caused by reduced blood supply.

Symptoms of Renal Artery Stenosis

Patients with renal artery stenosis may experience:

• High blood pressure that is difficult to control
• Reduced kidney function or kidney failure
• Fluid retention leading to swelling in the legs and feet
• Shortness of breath due to fluid buildup
• Unexplained changes in kidney function tests

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential before proceeding with renal artery angioplasty. Common diagnostic tests include:

• Doppler Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging to assess blood flow in the renal arteries.
• CT Angiography (CTA): A detailed scan that provides cross-sectional images of the arteries.
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): Uses magnetic fields to evaluate blood vessels.
• Renal Angiography: A specialized X-ray procedure with contrast dye to detect artery blockages.

Treatment Procedure

Renal artery angioplasty is performed by an interventional nephrologist or radiologist using the following steps:

1. Catheter Insertion: A thin tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin or arm and guided to the affected renal artery.
2. Balloon Inflation: A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated at the site of narrowing, widening the artery and restoring blood flow.
3. Stent Placement (if needed): In some cases, a mesh-like tube (stent) is placed to keep the artery open and prevent future narrowing.
4. Completion & Recovery: The catheter is removed, and patients are monitored for a few hours before being discharged, typically on the same day or the next.

Post-Treatment Care

After renal artery angioplasty, patients may need:

• Medication Management: Blood pressure medications and blood thinners may be prescribed to prevent complications.
• Lifestyle Changes: A heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation to reduce the risk of artery narrowing.
• Regular Monitoring: Follow-up tests to check kidney function, blood pressure, and arterial health.

Benefits of Renal Artery Angioplasty

• Non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure
• Immediate improvement in kidney blood flow
• Better control of high blood pressure
• Reduced risk of kidney function decline
• Faster recovery compared to open surgery

When to Seek Treatment

If you have uncontrolled hypertension, declining kidney function, or symptoms of renal artery stenosis, consulting a nephrologist early can help prevent further complications and improve long-term health outcomes.

Our specialized team ensures safe and effective renal artery angioplasty, providing personalized care for optimal kidney and cardiovascular health.