Renal Artery Stent

Overview About Renal Artery Stent

Renal artery stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat renal artery stenosis, a condition where the arteries supplying blood to the kidneys become narrowed or blocked. This narrowing can lead to decreased kidney function and high blood pressure. Renal artery stents are small, expandable tubes that are inserted to open up the narrowed artery, allowing for improved blood flow to the kidneys. The procedure is performed by expert interventional radiologists and heart specialists, such as Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu, to ensure optimal outcomes and long-term kidney health.

Types of Renal Artery Stent

There are primarily two types of renal artery stents:

  • Bare Metal Stents (BMS): These stents provide immediate structural support to the artery but lack drug-eluting properties.
  • Drug-Eluting Stents (DES): These stents are coated with medications that reduce the risk of restenosis (narrowing again) and are often used in patients at higher risk of complications.

Each type of stent is selected based on individual patient needs and the severity of the condition.

Symptoms of Renal Artery Stenosis

Renal artery stenosis can lead to a variety of symptoms, which may vary between men and women:

  • High blood pressure (Hypertension): One of the most common symptoms, which may be resistant to conventional treatments.
  • Kidney dysfunction: Symptoms include decreased urine output, fluid retention, and swelling.
  • Fatigue: Due to impaired kidney function.
  • Pain in the back or sides: Pain may occur due to reduced blood flow to the kidneys.
  • Dizziness and nausea: As a result of poor kidney perfusion.

Men and women both experience these symptoms, but women may report more generalized symptoms like fatigue and nausea, whereas men may notice more localized pain or discomfort.

Causes of Renal Artery Stenosis

Renal artery stenosis typically results from:

  • Atherosclerosis: The buildup of fatty deposits in the arterial walls, reducing blood flow.
  • High blood pressure: Chronic hypertension can lead to the narrowing of renal arteries over time.
  • Trauma or injury: Physical injury to the renal arteries may cause scarring or narrowing.
  • Fibromuscular dysplasia: A condition involving irregular development of blood vessels, particularly affecting young women.

In some cases, genetic factors may also contribute to the development of renal artery stenosis. Managing these risk factors through lifestyle changes and regular monitoring is crucial for preventing complications.

When to See a Doctor?

You should consider seeking medical advice if you experience:

  • Persistent high blood pressure that doesn’t respond to medication.
  • Kidney-related symptoms such as reduced kidney function or swelling.
  • Flank pain or discomfort, especially if linked to poor circulation to the kidneys.

Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes, making it essential to consult a heart specialist or interventional radiologist like Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu if you exhibit symptoms.

Consult Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu for expert evaluation.

Risk Factors of Renal Artery Stenosis

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing renal artery stenosis:

  • Atherosclerosis and plaque buildup in the arteries.
  • Chronic Hypertension that damages the walls of renal arteries.
  • Age: Older individuals are more susceptible to narrowing arteries.
  • Gender: Men are at higher risk than women.
  • Lifestyle factors: Smoking, obesity, and sedentary habits contribute to artery narrowing.

Controlling these risk factors through medication, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity can lower the risk of renal artery stenosis.

Complications & Preventions

Complications
If left untreated, renal artery stenosis can lead to severe complications such as:

  • Kidney failure: Reduced blood flow to the kidneys may cause permanent damage.
  • High blood pressure complications: Chronic hypertension can damage vital organs.
  • Heart disease: Poor kidney function can contribute to cardiovascular issues.

Preventions
Preventative measures focus on controlling high blood pressure and managing underlying conditions:

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, balanced diet, and weight management.
  • Regular monitoring: Routine check-ups with a specialist to monitor kidney health and blood flow.
  • Medications: Prescription medications such as ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers to manage high blood pressure and prevent artery narrowing.

Take the Experts Opinion from Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu for personalized care.

Diagnosis & Tests

To diagnose renal artery stenosis, healthcare providers may use the following tests:

  • Doppler Ultrasound: Measures blood flow in the renal arteries to detect narrowing.
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): Provides detailed images of blood vessels and the extent of narrowing.
  • CT Angiography (CTA): Another imaging method that offers a comprehensive view of the renal arteries.
  • Renal Arteriography: An invasive procedure that visualizes blood flow through the renal arteries, often used to guide stent placement.

Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu utilizes advanced diagnostic techniques to accurately assess and treat renal artery stenosis.

Treatments

Renal artery stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat severe narrowing of the renal arteries. Other treatment options include:

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Diet and exercise to manage risk factors.
  • Medications: To control high blood pressure and manage symptoms.
  • Surgical Options: In cases where stenting is not viable, surgical bypass may be considered.

Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu offers advanced stenting procedures with high success rates.

Do's and Don'ts

Do's

  • Monitor blood pressure regularly and adhere to prescribed medications.
  • Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Exercise regularly to improve circulation and kidney health.
  • Consult Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu for expert care and regular follow-ups.

Don’ts

  • Ignore high blood pressure symptoms or skip prescribed medications.
  • Engage in strenuous activities without consulting a healthcare provider if you have artery-related conditions.
  • Smoke or consume excessive alcohol, which can worsen artery health.

Contact Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu for a comprehensive approach to renal artery stenting.

Care at Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu

Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu specializes in advanced renal artery stenting procedures, providing personalized, effective solutions for patients with renal artery stenosis. With years of expertise and the latest in medical technology, Dr. Chevuturu ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care. From diagnosis to treatment and post-operative care, trust Dr. Chandra Sekhar Chevuturu for exceptional outcomes.