The role of embolic protection devices in renal artery stenting.
Renal artery angioplasty and stenting is commonly performed for the treatment of hypertension and ischemic nephropathy. An increasing number of procedures are being undertaken for "renal preservation" despite an associated risk of renal function decline related to the embolization of atheromatous debris liberated during the procedure. Although smaller, more flexible guidewires and stents have been developed to decrease the amount of debris created, interest in the off-label use of embolic protection devices has increased. We review the available embolic protection devices and currently available data regarding their use in renal artery interventions. Although not designed for use in the renal artery, there are at least theoretical reasons to believe that embolic protection during renal artery angioplasty may improve outcomes.
Johnson
Colleen M
CM
Division of Vascular Surgery, Southern Illinois University, Springfield, Illinois, USA.
Hodgson
Kim J
KJ
D000800:Angioplasty, Balloon / Q000009:adverse effects; D021721:Balloon Occlusion / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004617:Embolism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005374:Filtration / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D012078:Renal Artery Obstruction / Q000628:therapy*; D015607:Stents