Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting

    • Purpose: Treats narrowing of the arteries supplying the kidneys to improve blood flow and kidney function.
    • Procedure: A balloon catheter and stent are used to open the narrowed renal artery.
    • Note: The information provided here applies to elective Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting procedures under standard conditions. However, specifics may vary depending on individual patient factors, such as the severity of renal artery stenosis, the presence of other vascular conditions, or any complications that might arise during the procedure. The patient’s overall health, the complexity of the stenting process, and any additional interventions required can also influence the procedure and recovery process.

      Inpatient/Outpatient
      Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting is typically performed as an inpatient procedure. This allows for close monitoring before, during, and after the procedure to ensure that the stent is properly placed and that the patient's condition is stable. Most patients will require a hospital stay for observation to manage any potential complications, such as bleeding, changes in kidney function, or blood pressure fluctuations.

      Hospital Stay Duration
      Patients undergoing Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting usually stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. This stay ensures that the procedure was successful and that there are no immediate complications. Patients with complex conditions or who require additional interventions may need a longer hospital stay for further observation and care.

      Type of Anesthesia
      The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia at the catheter insertion site, often in the groin, combined with mild sedation to keep the patient comfortable. General anesthesia is rarely used, but may be considered in specific cases depending on the patient’s condition and the complexity of the procedure.

      Travel After Procedure
      Patients are generally advised to avoid travel for at least a few days after Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting, particularly if sedation was used or if there are concerns about the stability of the stent. It’s important to follow the healthcare provider’s specific recommendations regarding travel and activity levels post-procedure.

      Pre-procedure Preparation
      Before the procedure, patients are usually instructed to fast for several hours. They may also need to temporarily stop certain medications, particularly blood thinners, as directed by their healthcare provider to reduce the risk of bleeding during the procedure. Pre-procedure imaging and assessments are often conducted to plan the angioplasty and stenting process effectively.

      Procedure Duration
      The Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, though the duration can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether any additional interventions are required.

      Recovery Time
      Most patients can begin to resume light activities within a week, though full recovery may take several weeks. It is crucial to avoid strenuous activities during the initial recovery period and to adhere to the healthcare provider’s instructions on managing the stent and overall vascular health.

      Estimated Cost
      The cost of Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting can vary widely depending on the hospital, geographic location, and the specifics of the patient’s condition. For detailed cost information, patients should contact their healthcare provider or hospital directly.

      Post-procedure Care
      Post-procedure care involves monitoring the stent and the catheter insertion site for signs of complications, such as infection, bleeding, or swelling. Patients will need to attend follow-up appointments to assess the success of the procedure and to discuss any necessary lifestyle changes or further treatment. Long-term follow-up is essential to monitor kidney function and the patency of the stent.