Renal Stent Insertion | Dr. Mehul Rathod

Renal artery stenosis, or narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys, is a serious condition that can lead to high blood pressure, kidney damage, and even kidney failure if left untreated. One of the most effective treatments for this condition is renal stent insertion – a minimally invasive procedure performed to restore normal blood flow to the kidneys. As a Consultant Interventional Cardiologist in Latur, Dr. Mehul Rathod specializes in advanced procedures like renal stenting to help preserve kidney function and improve overall cardiovascular health.

What Is Renal Artery Stenosis?

• Impair kidney function
• Cause or worsen high blood pressure (renovascular hypertension)
• Lead to fluid overload and heart complications

What Is Renal Stent Insertion?

Renal stent insertion, also called renal angioplasty with stenting, is a non-surgical procedure that opens up the narrowed renal artery using a balloon and places a tiny metal mesh tube (stent) to keep it open. This improves blood flow to the kidneys, helps control blood pressure, and may stabilize or even improve kidney function.

Who Needs Renal Stenting?

• There is severe narrowing of the renal artery
• Blood pressure is not controlled with medications
• Kidney function is rapidly declining
• Recurrent fluid overload or heart failure is present
• There is a difference in kidney size due to poor blood supply

• High blood pressure that is difficult to control with medications
• Sudden onset of high blood pressure in younger adults (<30 years) or older adults (>55 years)
• Unexplained kidney dysfunction
• Recurrent flash pulmonary edema (sudden fluid accumulation in lungs)
• Shrinking of one kidney (seen on imaging)

If these symptoms are present, your doctor may advise diagnostic tests such as Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, MR angiography, or renal arteriography.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Renal stent insertion is typically done under local anesthesia and involves the following steps:

• Accessing the Artery: A small incision is made, usually in the groin area, to access a blood vessel using a thin tube called a catheter.
• Angiography: Contrast dye is injected to visualize the renal arteries and confirm the blockage.
• Balloon Angioplasty: A balloon-tipped catheter is guided to the narrowed section and inflated to widen the artery.
• Stent Placement: A metal stent is inserted to hold the artery open permanently.
• Recovery: Most patients can go home the same day or the next, with minimal downtime.

• Improved Blood Flow: Restores normal kidney perfusion
• Better Blood Pressure Control: Reduces reliance on multiple medications
• Protects Kidney Function: May prevent progression to kidney failure
• Minimally Invasive: No need for open surgery
• Quick Recovery: Return to normal activities within a few days

Life After Renal Stenting

• Take prescribed blood-thinning medications
• Control blood pressure and cholesterol
• Maintain a heart-healthy diet
• Follow up with regular kidney function tests and imaging

Long-term success depends on managing underlying conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and atherosclerosis.

When to Consult a Specialist?

If you or a loved one is dealing with uncontrolled high blood pressure or worsening kidney function, especially with known vascular disease, it is important to consult an interventional cardiologist. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent serious complications.

Renal stent insertion is a safe and effective treatment for restoring blood flow in narrowed kidney arteries. It not only helps control high blood pressure but also protects vital kidney function. If you're in Latur and facing challenges related to hypertension or kidney health, consult Dr. Mehul Rathod, a skilled Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, for expert evaluation and advanced care options.