When a renal artery is clogged, blood flow to the kidneys is affected, risking potential health concerns such as high blood pressure or kidney failure. Based on the results of renal angiography, our physicians may determine the need for renal artery stenting, a minimally invasive procedure, to widen the narrowed artery, resulting in healthier blood flow.
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What is stenting?
Stenting is the process of placing a stent. A stent is a tiny wire mesh tube made of medical-grade stainless steel or cobalt alloy metal. It props open an artery and is left there permanently.
How is renal artery stenting performed?
Renal artery stenting involves the administration of a fine angioplasty catheter into the affected renal artery. Utilizing advanced imagery technology, one of our physicians will carefully guide the angioplasty catheter where the artery is at its most narrow. A wire will a ballooned tip will be inserted through the catheter where it will widen the narrowed artery, resulting in healthier blood flow. The physician will then remove the angioplasty balloon and insert a catheter with a closed stent on it. He will then place the stent in the artery, which pushes against the walls of the artery, serving as a support to keep it open. This procedure is minimally invasive, which will not require any extensive incisions.
What can I expect following my renal artery stenting procedure?
A blood-thinning medicine may be prescribed to you to prevent blood clots and to aid in proper blood flow until the treated area heals. Each patient will have follow-up appointments with our physicians to monitor your recovery process.
