Variations of renal arteries on 64 slice Multidetector Computed Tomography

Abstract Introduction The incidence of accessory renal arteries is very high. Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT) is a minimally invasive alternative to conventional angiography in preoperative evaluation. The aim of this study was to document the incidence of accessory renal arteries and the level of origin of main renal arteries from abdominal aorta. Methods The study was conducted on one hundred patients in whom aortofemoropopliteal or aortic CT angiography was done for various indications at a tertiary care center in North India. CT angiography was performed on 64 slice MDCT scanner. The reconstructed images were analyzed using vessel analysis software. Results Accessory renal arteries were present in 36% cases with unilateral anomaly in 30% cases and bilateral in 6% cases. The dominant side of renal artery variations was the right side. All the accessory arteries took origin from the aorta and 52.8% of these supplied the inferior pole of the kidney. In 99% cases the origin of main renal artery was between upper border of L 1 vertebra and lower border of L 2 vertebra. The most common site of origin was at the level of intervertebral disc between L 1 and L 2 . Discussion The incidence of multiple renal arteries is much higher than predicted by various studies. Comprehensive anatomic depiction of the renal arterial pattern aids in determining the technical feasibility of surgical and endourological interventions. It helps to avoid postoperative complications.