Overview

Renal stenting is a minimally invasive procedure that opens and supports renal arteries or ureters that are too narrow or blocked and are affecting kidney function. Most of the time, renal artery stenting is done to treat significant renal artery stenosis, which occurs when plaque builds up in the artery that supplies blood to the kidney, narrowing it. In some cases, ureteral stents are placed to clear urinary tract blockages and allow urine to drain properly from the kidney to the bladder. To keep the affected vessel or ureter open, a small mesh tube called a stent is put into it. A specialised interventional radiology or catheterisation lab uses imaging to guide renal stenting.

Why It's Done
Renal stenting is performed to improve blood flow to the kidney or to relieve a urinary tract obstruction. When the renal artery narrows, reduced blood flow can lead to uncontrolled high blood pressure and worsening kidney function. Stones, tumours, or scarring that block the ureter can cause pain, infection, and kidney damage. Stenting helps keep the kidneys healthy and prevents further problems.

What to Expect?
Imaging tests such as CT angiography, Doppler ultrasound, or MRI are performed before the procedure to evaluate for narrowing or blockage. Tests on blood are done to check how well the kidneys work and how well the blood clots. Most of the time, renal artery stenting is done with local anaesthesia and sedation. A catheter is put into a blood vessel in the groin or wrist and then guided to the renal artery with the help of X-ray images. To open the narrowed area, a balloon may be inflated first, then a stent may be placed to keep blood flowing. Using cystoscopy, a thin, flexible stent is put into the ureter through the bladder. It usually takes one to two hours to do. After that, patients are monitored to ensure their blood pressure remains stable and their kidneys function properly before they leave.

Recovery & Outlook
Most of the time, recovery is quick, and there is only mild pain at the site of insertion. Most people go back to their normal activities within a few days. Renal stenting effectively restores blood flow or urine drainage and is crucial for safeguarding long-term kidney function.