Endovascular management of vascular complications in renal allograft - An observational study

Abstract

Context: Role of endovascular management of vascular complications in renal transplant recipients. Aims: To present our experience in endovascular management of vascular complications in renal transplant recipients with a literature review. Settings and Design: A retrospective observational study. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of postrenal transplant recipients referred to our department for the evaluation and endovascular management of vascular complications from January 2010 to December 2014. Cases of transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS) and common iliac artery (CIA) stenosis were treated with percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty with or without stenting. Intraparenchymal pseudoaneurysms, arteriovenous fistula (AVF), and active contrast extravasation cases were managed with coil and/or glue embolization. Treated patients were followed up with serial blood pressure measurements, serum creatinine estimation, and Doppler evaluation in the postprocedure period and at 3-month and 6-month intervals. Results: Among a total of ten patients, there were five TRAS, two intraparenchymal pseudoaneurysms with active contrast extravasation, one AVF, one active renal bleed with peri-graft hematoma, and one right CIA stenosis. Intraparenchymal pseudoaneurysms, AVF, and active extravasations were postbiopsy. All treated patients showed improved renal function, increased hematocrit, improved blood pressure control in the postprocedure period, and follow-up. Conclusions: Vascular complications in renal transplant patients may lead to graft dysfunction, increased morbidity, and even graft loss if left untreated. Endovascular interventions are first-line treatments with excellent short- and long-term outcomes.