Renal Failure

The renovascular system is made up of renal arteries and veins which supply blood flow to the kidney. The kidney rids the body of waste. When renal failure occurs the kidneys do not adequately eliminate the body of waste causing a build up of toxins in the body.

The kidney also helps regulate blood pressure by secreting the proper amount of a hormone called renin into the blood stream. When the renal artery becomes narrowed or blocked by atherosclerosis or fibrodysplasia (fibrous lesion within the blood vessels), it can cause dangerously high blood pressure which may lead to kidney failure, stroke, heart attack or death.

Signs & Symptoms

Uncontrolled high blood pressure

Itchy skin

Bad taste in the mouth

Chest pain

Yellow/Pale skin color

Puffy hands and feet

Confusion

Back pain

Decreased urine output/blood in urine

Nausea/vomiting or fever

Diagnosis

Physician's Examination A health care provider investigates the body of a patient for signs of disease. It generally follows the taking of the medical history - an account of the symptoms as experienced by the patient. Together with the medical history, the physical examination aids in determining the correct diagnosis and devising the treatment plan. This data then becomes part of the medical record.
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Ultrasound A diagnostic medical imaging technique used to visualize the size, structure and any pathological imperfections of the kidneys using real time tomographic images.

Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA)  Magnetic Resonance Angiogram is a minimally invasive test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical problems. MRA uses magnetic field and radio waves to take pictures of the major blood vessels throughout the body. Sometimes contrast material is used to enhance the blood vessels. Both blood flow and the condition of the blood vessel wall can be seen.

Renal Artery Angiogram An angiogram performed on the Renal Artery.

Computed Tomographic Angiography (CTA) Computerized tomographic angiography is a minimally invasive test which combines a CT scan (X-rays and computerized images) and angiography to show detailed images of the blood vessels in the body.

Treatment

Take prescribed medications as directed

Maintain Blood pressure

Maintain diabetes

Lower cholesterol levels

Exercise regularly

Renal Artery Angioplasty/Stent

Renal Artery Bypass Surgery