Procedure
Renal Artery Intervention
Opening a narrowed kidney artery to protect kidney function and help bring blood pressure under control
Renal angioplasty with stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked arteries in the kidneys. By widening these arteries and placing a stent to keep them open, the procedure improves blood flow, helping to lower blood pressure and protect kidney function. It typically involves inserting a balloon catheter to open the artery, followed by the placement of a stent to ensure it remains open and prevents re-narrowing. Renal angioplasty with stenting is a safe and effective treatment, offering quicker recovery and fewer complications compared to more invasive surgeries. Most patients experience significant relief and an improvement in their overall kidney health following the procedure.
Introduction
This information provides an overview of renal angioplasty and stenting (percutaneous renal intervention, PRI). It is a procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked renal arteries, improving blood flow to the kidneys. Below, you will find details on the purpose of the procedure, how it is performed, what to expect before and after, and the associated benefits.
Overview
Renal angioplasty and stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed renal arteries. It helps restore blood flow to the kidneys, potentially improving kidney function and alleviating symptoms associated with renal artery stenosis, such as high blood pressure and reduced kidney function. The procedure involves using a balloon-tipped catheter to widen the artery and usually includes placing a stent to help keep the artery open.
This procedure is typically recommended for patients with renovascular hypertension, decreased kidney function due to renal artery stenosis, or significant narrowing identified during a renal angiography.
Before & during the procedure
A detailed medical history will be taken, and you will be asked to sign an informed consent form. Tests such as blood tests, an ECG, and possibly a renal ultrasound or angiogram may be conducted. You will need to fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure. Some medications, including anticoagulants, may need to be temporarily discontinued.
Local anaesthesia is applied at the catheter insertion site, typically the femoral or radial artery. A catheter is inserted and guided to the narrowed renal artery. A balloon is then inflated at the blockage site to compress the plaque and widen the artery. A stent may be placed to keep the artery open. The stents used can be either bare-metal or drug-eluting (coated with medication to prevent the artery from narrowing again).
Recovery & aftercare
After the procedure, you will be closely monitored in a recovery area. Bed rest is usually recommended, especially if the femoral artery was used for access. You will be given medications to prevent blood clots and manage any discomfort.
The hospital stay typically lasts 1-2 days, after which you may be discharged. Activity restrictions include avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few days. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor recovery and ensure the success of the angioplasty.
Benefits
- Symptom relief, including reduced blood pressure and improved kidney function
- Prevention of further kidney damage
- Lower risk of complications from high blood pressure
- Minimally invasive with a faster recovery
In summary
Renal artery intervention is an effective treatment for renal artery stenosis, helping to reduce symptoms and improve kidney function. Understanding the procedure and its benefits will help you make an informed decision. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments for the best outcome.
Appointments
Get in touch with us
Please contact our friendly administration staff to schedule an appointment with Dr Peter Hadjipetrou.