Frequently Asked Questions

What functions do my kidneys perform?
The kidneys are filters that remove waste from the blood, produce urine and play an important role in regulating blood pressure. more information

What is renal atherosclerosis?
Renal atherosclerosis is a disease that restricts blood flow to the kidneys due to a buildup of plaque. more information

What are the symptoms of renal artery disease?
One common symptom may be high blood pressure that does not decrease with the use of hypertensive medications. more information

How is renal artery disease diagnosed?
By ultrasound, angiography, CT scan or MRA scan. more information

How is renal artery disease treated?
With medications, balloon angioplasty, stent implantation or bypass surgery.  more information

What is a stent?
An expandable slotted metal tube used to keep a vessel open.  more information

 

Glossary

Angiography: A method of taking x-rays after injection of contrast dye into a blood vessel in order to identify its anatomy.

Angioplasty: A catheter-based balloon treatment to open narrowed or blocked vessels.

Atherosclerosis: A condition in which plaque (fatty deposits and/or calcium) builds up inside the arteries.

Cholesterol: A white crystalline substance found in animal tissues and various foods. Its level in the bloodstream can influence certain conditions, such as atherosclerotic plaque and coronary artery disease.

Computed Tomography (CT): A method of using x-rays from different angles around the body to create cross-section views of the body. A contrast fluid is injected so that arteries may be viewed.

Glucose: Sugar.

Hypertension: High blood pressure.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): A method of using a magnetic field to view the arteries. A contrast fluid is injected so that arteries may be viewed.

Plaque: Fatty deposits, cell debris or calcium that leads to the narrowing of the artery.

Renal: Pertaining to the kidneys.

Stent: An expandable slotted metal tube that is used to keep a vessel open.

Ultrasound: A method of using a continuous sound wave to view arteries and organs.