Renin in turn is converted to angiotensin - one of the most potent vasoconstrictors known. Selective renal angiogram showing an inferior and middle pole aneurysm Rupture of renal aneurysms occurs relatively infrequently when compared to aortic aneurysm rupture . Atherosclerotic occlusive disease involving the renal artery is much more common than aneurysmal disease. A number of screening tests are available for the diagnosis of renal artery occlusive disease including duplex ultrasound, captopril renal scan and renal vein renin determination. Confirmation of disease is typically obtained by either contrast or CO2 angiography.
Reconstruction is complex but usually less demanding than repair of renal artery aneurysms.
The Johns Hopkins Hospital Division of Vascular Surgery has had a longstanding interest in the management of renovascular occlusive and aneurysmal disease. The division of vascular surgery in conjunction with the divisions of nephrology and interventional radiology offers the latest advances in the expert care of these complex renal artery diseases.