Let's learn about the special X-ray that examines the blood vessels in the kidneys (Renal Arteriography)?

The kidneys are one of the most important organs in our body. They are like two filters in our body. They clean our blood and remove unwanted substances as urine . So, it is very important that the tiny blood vessel system that supplies blood to the kidneys works properly. Sometimes the doctor may suspect that there is something wrong with these blood vessels. At that time, a special test called `Renal Arteriography` is done to check it out. Don't be scared when you hear this name, we will talk about everything in simple terms today.

Simply put, what is Renal Arteriography?

This is also a type of X-ray test. But it's not like a regular X-ray. Imagine you're walking down an unfamiliar street, and you need a map, right? Well, this test helps the doctor see a map, or a clear picture, of the blood vessels in your kidneys.

This is also called a `Renal Angiogram`. This uses a special X-ray technique called ` Fluoroscopy` . This means that instead of taking a single photo, you can watch the blood flow through the kidneys live, taking continuous X-ray images like a video. This allows you to see the blood vessels along with the other organs and bones inside.

Why do we need to do this kind of test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if they suspect there is a problem with the blood vessels in your kidneys. This test is usually ordered if the blood vessels are not clearly visible on a CT scan or MRI scan .

See the table below for the main medical conditions that can be detected with this test.

How to do this test? Let's see step by step.

Knowing about this test will help reduce your fear. Let's see what happens in this.

Things you need to know before the test

• Tell the doctor everything: Be sure to tell him if you have any allergies , especially to dyes used in X-rays , iodine , or medications.
• If you are pregnant , trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should inform your doctor about this.
• Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This includes not only the ones your doctor has prescribed, but also any over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin, vitamins, and traditional medicines. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications a few days before the test.
• If you have other medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, tell us about them as well.

What happens during the test?

1. First, the hospital will give you a gown to put on. Then you will be made to lie down on a special bed with an X-ray machine.

2. A small tube (IV line) will be placed in a vein in your arm through which you will be given fluids and medication to keep you calm.

3. Next, the doctor will numb the area where the catheter is inserted. This catheter is a very thin, flexible tube. It is usually inserted through the groin or sometimes through a vein in the arm . You will not feel any pain because of the numbing.

4. Then, through a small needle, the catheter is carefully inserted into the vein.

5. This catheter is carefully guided to the renal artery, which supplies blood to the kidneys, while observing X-ray images.

6. Once the catheter is in place, a special dye (contrast dye) is injected through it. This dye makes the blood vessels appear very clear and white on X-ray images. You may feel a slight warmth in your body at this time, which is normal.

7. At this point, the doctor will tell you to hold your breath for a while . Take those pictures clearly. It is also very important that you do not move.

8. Special note: Sometimes, if the doctor finds a blocked blood vessel during this test, he can treat it. This is called `Renal Artery Angioplasty`. In this, a small balloon is passed through the catheter and the blocked area is inflated, restoring blood flow.

What should I do after the test?

Once the test is complete, the catheter is carefully removed. The catheter is then pressed for about 15 minutes to stop the bleeding from the insertion site.

• Afterwards, you will need to lie flat in bed for a few hours , especially keeping the leg where the catheter was inserted still.
• In most cases, the doctor may advise you to stay in the hospital that night to make sure everything went well. This is for your safety.
• Drink plenty of water. This is very important because the dye that has been applied to the body needs to be quickly excreted through urine.
• You will need to take care of the catheter insertion site for a few days after you go home. Your doctor will advise you on this.

Are there any risks with this test?

As with any medical test, there are some very small risks involved. But remember that these are very rare . And the doctors who perform the test are very careful about this.

This risk can vary slightly depending on other medical conditions you have. That's why we said earlier that it's so important to tell your doctor about your complete health history .

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