Renal Artery Stenting
Renal artery stenting is a procedure that involves placing a stent in a narrowed renal artery to improve blood flow to the kidneys. The renal arteries are the main blood vessels that carry blood to the kidneys.
When is the procedure recommended?
An renal artery stenting procedure is usually recommended for patients with there is a significant blockage within the artery, there is atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup, that causes a blockage of more than 60%. The procedure is also recommended for patients who have a blood pressure unmanageable while taking high doses of three or more blood pressure medications.
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure is usually performed immediately after an arteriogram, which is used to diagnose renal artery stenosis. Using imaging guidance, our neuro-interventional radiologist will guide and place a catheter (small plastic tube) into the artery. A balloon on the end of the tube is then inflated to open the narrowed section of the artery, and a stent is inserted to keep it open. The stent is a wire mesh cylinder that acts as a scaffold to keep the artery open and increase blood flow. The procedure is performed under fluoroscopy to help the radiologist see the catheter and stent inside the artery.
What are the benefits?
Renal artery stenting can help improve blood flow, decrease blood pressure, and preserve kidney function. It can also protect the kidneys from further damage due to loss of blood supply.
