Renal Artery Stenosis

[ss1229]

I have been recently diagnosed (after they conducted a MRA) with renal stenosis. The report indicates a high grade stenosis in the left renal artery, with plaque formations forming in the right renal artery, abdominal aorta, and celiac artery, but not as severe. I am to see a vascular surgeon next monday. I am quite apprehensive about what the treatment may be because the research I have done indicates that if the renal artery is blocked greater than 80%, stints may not work. I can only presume that would mean possibly a bypass. Has anyone else had this situation, and if so, what was your outcome? I have had hypertension for many years, and recently, the four antihypertensive meds I take have not been controlling my blood pressure. My cardiologist ordered a MRI of the renal arteries, and that is when the stenosis was discovered. Even though the left kidney is stenosed, I have right, constant flank pain. In addition to the flank pain, I have calf and left hip pain, which they say could be caused by my kidney not being able to filter out the toxins properly. My creatine levels have been quite high for about six months, and the creatine clearance test revealed a value of 35....normal is 70. Because I am a medic, I completely understand the pathophysiology of what is happening. It still does not calm my internal fears, and I would be interested in knowing how other people handled their similar situations. Thank you for listening and for providing whatever feedback you can provide.