Renal Artery Stenosis

Renal artery stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing or constriction of the renal arteries, the blood vessels that supply the kidneys with oxygenated blood. This narrowing can occur due to various factors, such as atherosclerosis, fibromuscular dysplasia, or external compression. Renal artery stenosis can result in reduced blood flow to the kidneys, which can significantly impact kidney function.
Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies, and treatment options may include medications, lifestyle modifications, and surgical intervention. Early detection and management of renal artery stenosis are crucial to preserving kidney function and preventing further complications.

Renal Artery Stenosis Q & A

What is renal artery stenosis?

Renal artery stenosis is the blockage or narrowing of arteries that supply blood flow to the kidneys. Narrowing and/or blockages result in reduced blood flow, leading to a decrease in kidney function. It may also trigger compensatory mechanisms, such as activating the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system that spikes blood pressure and causes fluid retention.
Renal artery stenosis is typically diagnosed through imaging studies such as ultrasound, computed tomography angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), or renal arteriography.

What are the symptoms of renal artery stenosis?

The symptoms of renal artery stenosis may vary depending on the extent of the narrowing and the degree of kidney involvement. Some individuals with renal artery stenosis may remain asymptomatic, while others may experience symptoms such as high blood pressure, decreased kidney function, fluid retention, recurrent episodes of pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs), and unexplained worsening of pre-existing kidney disease. In serious cases, sudden renal failure may occur.

How is renal artery stenosis corrected?

Treatment options may include medications to better control blood pressure and improve kidney function and certain lifestyle modifications like maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise. In some cases, invasive surgical intervention such as angioplasty (inflating a balloon in the narrowed artery to widen it) or stenting (placing a small metal mesh tube to keep the artery open) may be required.