Renal arteriography

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Kidney anatomy

Kidney - blood and urine flow

Renal arteriography

Definition:

Renal arteriography is a test to examine the blood vessels of the kidneys, using contrast material and X-rays. See also renal venogram.

These arteries are difficult to fully examine on an ordinary X-ray, so a contrast material is injected into one or more arteries so they may be seen and evaluated.

Alternative Names:
Renal angiogram
How the test is performed:

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This test is done in the hospital. You will be asked to lie on the X-ray table. The area where the contrast medium will be introduced is shaved and cleansed. The site is usually in the leg. A local anesthetic is given and a needle is inserted into the artery.

A catheter (a long, narrow, flexible tube) is introduced over a wire into the artery. The catheter is threaded through the main vessels of the pelvis, up to the abdominal aorta (which provides blood from the heart to the lower body). This procedure is monitored by a fluoroscope (a special X-ray that projects the images on a TV monitor).

The contrast medium is then injected into the renal artery through the catheter, and images are taken. The catheter is kept open by flushing it periodically with a saline solution containing heparin (a blood thinner), which will keep the blood in the catheter from clotting.

After the X-rays are taken, the catheter is withdrawn. Pressure is immediately applied to the leg at the site of insertion for 10 to 15 minutes or more to stop the bleeding. After that time, the area is checked and a tight bandage is applied. The leg should be kept straight for an additional 12 hours after the procedure.

Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSI) uses a computer to "subtract" out the bones and tissues in the region so that only the vessels filled with contrast are seen.

How to prepare for the test:

Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant and if you have ever had any bleeding problems. Report any allergic reactions you have had to X-ray contrast material or any iodine substance and any other allergic reactions you have had.

You must sign a consent form. Food and fluids will be restricted 8 hours before the test. You will be given a hospital gown to wear and asked to remove all jewelry. You may be given a sedative or pain pill before the procedure.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this procedure depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics: