The role of sonography in renal artery stenosis evaluation and stent placement

Abstract

A literature review has been conducted to demonstrate the role of duplex sonography in evaluating renal artery stenosis (RAS) as a screening method for patients prior to percutaneous transluminal renal artery stent (PTRAS) placement. The review also evaluates the role of ultrasound surveillance following PTRAS and establishes the overall influence of ultrasound on defining stent efficacy for managing hemodynamically significant renovascular disease. Recent studies have narrowed criteria for intervention through duplex sonographic assessment of RAS to better predict patient benefit and response to stent placement. Studies using sonographic parameters evaluating patients for renal artery stenosis, criteria-dependent stent placement, and postintervention follow-up have shown improved patient response, helping ensure effective and appropriate care in RAS management. © The Author(s) 2013.