Blocked kidney arteries can lead to uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension) and even kidney failure if left untreated. Renal artery angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that restores blood flow to the kidneys, helping to lower blood pressure, protect kidney function, and prevent serious complications.
At Vascular Surgery Associates, our leading vascular specialists in Los Angeles and Santa Monica provide advanced renal artery angioplasty to treat renal artery stenosis, a condition that affects blood flow to the kidneys. By using the latest endovascular techniques, we help patients achieve better blood pressure control and preserve kidney health.
What is Renal Artery Stenosis?
Renal artery stenosis occurs when one or both kidney arteries become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood supply to the kidneys. This forces the kidneys to release hormones that raise blood pressure, often leading to resistant hypertension that does not respond to standard medications.
Causes of Renal Artery Stenosis
Atherosclerosis (Hardening of the Arteries)
The most common cause, where fatty plaque buildup narrows the kidney arteries.
Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD)
A rare condition, mostly affecting women, causing artery walls to thicken and restrict blood flow.
If both kidney arteries are affected, patients face an increased risk of kidney failure and may require urgent vascular intervention.
Symptoms & Risk Factors of Renal Artery Stenosis
Many patients with renal artery disease do not experience symptoms until significant blockage occurs. Signs to watch for include:
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control despite medication
- Sudden or worsening hypertension in patients under 50 or over 70
- Kidney dysfunction or decreased kidney function detected in lab tests
- Fluid retention and swelling in the legs and feet
- Unexplained heart failure or pulmonary edema
Patients with high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking history, or a family history of vascular disease are at higher risk of developing renal artery stenosis.
How Renal Artery Angioplasty Works
Renal artery angioplasty is a catheter-based procedure designed to widen narrowed kidney arteries and restore blood flow.
The Procedure
- A small catheter is inserted into the artery through a tiny puncture in the groin.
- Using real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy), the catheter is guided to the renal artery.
- A balloon is inflated to widen the artery, improving blood flow to the kidney.
- A stent may be placed to keep the artery open and prevent future narrowing.
- Once complete, the catheter is removed, and a bandage is placed–no large incisions needed.
The procedure takes about one hour, and most patients go home the same day.
High Blood Pressure Treatment Through Renal Artery Angioplasty
When renal artery stenosis reduces kidney function, the body compensates by increasing blood pressure, often making hypertension resistant to medication. Renal artery angioplasty can help by:
- Lowering high blood pressure in patients with renal artery stenosis
- Reducing the need for multiple blood pressure medications
- Improving kidney function and slowing disease progression
- Preventing serious complications, such as kidney failure or heart issues
For patients whose hypertension is difficult to manage, renal artery angioplasty can provide life-changing improvements in blood pressure control and overall health.
Benefits of Renal Artery Angioplasty vs. Surgery
Renal artery angioplasty is the preferred treatment for most patients because it offers:
Minimally invasive approach
Small puncture instead of major surgery
Faster recovery
Most patients return to normal activities in 24-48 hours
Lower complication risk
Compared to traditional renal artery surgery
High success rates
Comparable long-term results to open surgery
Immediate symptom relief
Blood flow is restored instantly, improving kidney function
In rare cases, surgery may still be needed, particularly for patients with renal artery aneurysms or combined aortic disease. Our vascular specialists determine the best treatment based on individual anatomy and health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Renal Artery Angioplasty
Patients with high blood pressure that does not respond to medication or kidney dysfunction due to blocked arteries may benefit from angioplasty. A vascular evaluation, including MR angiography, helps confirm the diagnosis.
No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation, ensuring minimal discomfort.
Many patients experience a gradual improvement in blood pressure within weeks, especially if medication was previously ineffective.
Some patients reduce or eliminate their need for medication, but others may still require ongoing hypertension management.
Yes, most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover the procedure when medically necessary. Our team assists with insurance verification and approval.
Dedicated to Excellence in Vascular Care Since 1963
Vascular Surgery Associates (VSA) has established itself as a cornerstone of vascular health in Southern California, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge treatment methods. Founded by visionary surgeons in 1963, our practice has grown from pioneering beginnings into one of the busiest and most respected vascular surgery groups in the Western United States.
Expert Renal Artery Treatment in Los Angeles & Santa Monica | Book Your Consultation Today
If you suffer from resistant high blood pressure or kidney dysfunction, renal artery angioplasty may provide the solution you need. At Vascular Surgery Associates, our leading vascular surgeons in Los Angeles and Santa Monica specialize in minimally invasive treatments to restore circulation, improve blood pressure, and protect kidney function.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn if renal artery angioplasty is the right treatment for you.