MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT
Renal Angioplasty & Stenting
Renal angioplasty and stenting are minimally invasive, image-guided procedures used to treat narrowing of the renal arteries that supply blood to the kidneys. These procedures may be considered in selected patients with renal artery stenosis to help improve blood flow and manage related clinical conditions.
What Is Renal Angioplasty & Stenting?
Renal angioplasty is a catheter-based procedure in which a small balloon is used to widen a narrowed renal artery. In selected cases, a stent may be placed to help keep the artery open and maintain adequate blood flow to the kidney.
These procedures are performed under imaging guidance and aim to address vascular causes of kidney-related or blood pressure problems without open surgery.
When Is Renal Angioplasty & Stenting Considered?
Renal angioplasty and stenting may be considered in patients with:
- Renal artery stenosis confirmed on imaging
- Difficult-to-control or early-onset hypertension
- Worsening kidney function related to reduced blood flow
- Recurrent episodes of fluid overload or pulmonary edema
- Vascular disease affecting the renal artery origin (ostial stenosis)
Suitability is determined after detailed clinical evaluation and imaging assessment.
How Renal Angioplasty & Stenting Are Performed
- The procedure is performed under real-time imaging guidance
- Local anesthesia is commonly used
- A catheter is guided to the narrowed renal artery
- Balloon angioplasty is performed to widen the artery
- A stent may be placed in selected cases to support the vessel
Potential Advantages of Renal Angioplasty & Stenting
- Minimally invasive, image-guided approach
- Avoids open surgical procedures
- Can improve renal blood flow in selected patients
- May help manage vascular causes of hypertension
Recovery and Aftercare
Patients are monitored after the procedure, and kidney function and blood pressure are followed during recovery. Follow-up imaging may be recommended to assess vessel patency.
Recovery recommendations vary based on individual clinical factors and should be followed as advised by the treating doctor.
Risks and Considerations
Like all vascular interventions, renal angioplasty and stenting carry potential risks, including:
- Bleeding or bruising at the access site
- Vessel injury or restenosis
- Contrast-related kidney effects in selected cases
- Need for additional interventions
Not all patients experience these effects, and risks vary depending on individual health factors and vascular anatomy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is renal angioplasty a surgical procedure?
No. Renal angioplasty and stenting are minimally invasive, image-guided procedures performed without open surgery
Does renal angioplasty cure hypertension?
These procedures may help manage hypertension related to renal artery narrowing in selected cases, but they do not cure all forms of high blood pressure.
Is hospital admission required?
Short hospital observation may be required depending on patient condition and procedural complexity.
Consult for Renal Angioplasty & Stenting Evaluation
Clinical assessment and imaging studies are essential to determine whether renal angioplasty or stenting is appropriate.