What is a renal arteriogram?

A renal arteriogram is a special type of X-ray picture that helps doctors see the blood vessels in your kidneys.

Why is it necessary?

This exam is used for patients who have high blood pressure that may be caused by a kidney problem. It also is helpful in patients who may have a kidney artery that is closed or whose arteries are inflamed.

How is it done?

This procedure is performed by a doctor, a radiologist, who is assisted by specially trained nurses and technologists. Using a needle, the doctor inserts a thin wire into a large artery in the groin area. This wire is used to guide a small tube called a catheter into the large artery leading to your kidneys. Once the catheter is in place, the X-ray dye is injected through the catheter and X-rays are taken of the arteries.