Experience with revascularizing renal artery aneurysms: is it feasible, safe and worth attempting?

PURPOSE: We retrospectively evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of surgical revascularization for renal artery aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Beginning in 1984, 12 patients with renal artery aneurysm underwent renal revascularization regardless of clinical features. Postoperative results were analyzed regarding split renal function, patency of the revascularized arteries, blood pressure control and surgical complications.

RESULTS: Postoperative renal function was stable or improved in all but 1 case and patency in branched arteries was preserved in 86%. Hypertension in 8 patients was cured in 7 (88%), including 2 with renovascular hypertension, and improved in 1 (12%). Complications were minimal with only 1 ureteral stricture that required reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS: The majority of renal artery aneurysm cases are amenable to surgical repair. Carefully performed renal revascularization is rewarding in that high blood pressure is better controlled, renal function is improved and the potential risk of rupture is obviated.