Renal venogram
Renal Venogram
A renal venogram is an imaging test used to check the blood supply to the kidneys. During the test, a contrast dye is injected into the veins around the kidneys, and then an X-ray is taken. This helps pinpoint any blockages or narrowing of the vein around the kidney.
Purpose of Renal Venogram
Renal venograms are mainly used to diagnose renal artery stenosis, a blockage of one or more of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys. A decreased flow of blood to the kidneys can cause a variety of symptoms, such as kidney damage, high blood pressure, or pain. The test can also help diagnose other conditions that affect the kidneys' blood vessels, such as narrowing of the veins in the kidneys, an enlarged vein in the body, or a tumor.
Preparation
Before undergoing a renal venogram, tell your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to iodine and shellfish, or if you have a history of heart disease, kidney disease, or another medical condition. You may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax during the procedure. In some cases, you may be given antibiotics beforehand to help prevent infection.
Procedure
A renal venogram is generally done in a hospital or imaging center. You'll be asked to lie on an X-ray table and the area around the kidneys will be shaved and cleaned. Then a catheter will be threaded into the vein near your kidneys. The doctor will inject a special dye, called contrast medium, into the vein. This dye helps the doctor see the blood vessels of the kidney more clearly. An X-ray is then taken to check if there are any blockages or other problems.
Types of Renal Venogram
There are two types of renal venograms:
- Conventional venography – During this procedure, the contrast dye is injected into the vein near your kidney and then an X-ray is taken.
- Digital venography – During this procedure, a computerized tomography (CT) scan is used instead of an X-ray. The contrast dye is also injected into the vein during the scan.
Risks of Renal Venogram
As with any medical procedure, there are certain risks associated with the renal venogram. These include:
- Contrast dye reactions – The most common side effect of the contrast dye used during a renal venogram is a rash. Other reactions include nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and irregular heart rate. Your doctor can give you medicine to help prevent these reactions if necessary.
- Allergic reactions – Allergic reactions to the contrast dye can occur, although they are rare. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction during the procedure, your doctor will be able to treat it immediately.
- Infection – There is a small risk of infection at the injection site or in the vein. Your doctor can give you antibiotics to reduce this risk.
Why is Renal Venogram Done?
A renal venogram is done to assess the blood supply to the kidneys. It can help diagnose conditions such as renal artery stenosis or narrowing of the veins in the kidneys. It can also help diagnose other conditions that affect the kidneys' blood vessels, such as an enlarged vein in the body or a tumor.
When is a Renal Venogram Needed?
A renal venogram may be recommended if your doctor suspects a problem with the blood supply to the kidneys. Symptoms of kidney problems may include abdominal pain, difficulty urinating, high blood pressure, and/or swelling of the legs. Your doctor may also recommend a renal venogram if you have a history of heart disease, kidney disease, or another medical condition.