Renal arteriography

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Kidney anatomy Kidney - blood and urine flow Renal arteries

Overview Risks Results

Renal arteriography

There is the possibility of significant risk. There is a chance of a reaction to the contrast medium. There is some risk of the catheter damaging the artery or knocking loose a piece of the artery wall, which can then lodge in the vessel and block blood flow. This is rare, however. A clot or bleeding at the puncture site may result in a partial blockage of the flow of blood to the leg.

There is low radiation exposure. However, most experts feel that the risk related most X-rays is smaller than other risks we take every day, such as driving in cars. Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks related to X-rays.

The test should NOT be done if you are pregnant or tend to bleed.

For those with contrast allergies, or other contraindications to contrast use, MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) can be performed. It is non-invasive and can provide similar imaging of the renal vessels.

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