Sonography in the Diagnosis of Renal Transplant Torsion

Abstract

Torsion following kidney transplant is a complication occurring when the kidney rotates around the vascular pedicle. It is a relatively rare occurrence but one that the sonographer should be aware of when a patient presents with severe abdominal pain and decreased urine output. In the best of circumstances, renal torsion can be repaired; in the worst cases, the kidney is lost. Prompt diagnosis of renal vein thrombosis, renal artery stenosis, and occlusion resulting from torsion permits graft detorsion and possible salvage of the kidney.