Contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) in the evaluation of vascular complications of renal transplantation

Clin Radiol. 2005 Nov;60(11):1171-81. doi: 10.1016/j.crad.2005.05.004.

Abstract

Vascular complications associated with renal transplantation merit urgent investigation since they are often correctable, and timely intervention can help salvage the graft kidney. Contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) is a promising non-invasive technique, uses relatively non-nephrotoxic contrast agents and can rapidly demonstrate the underlying lesion in most instances. In this pictorial review we present the spectrum of abnormalities, as well as the pitfalls of interpretation of CE-MRA, that we encountered in 41 cases where there was clinical suspicion of vascular complications of renal transplantation. We believe that CE-MRA is a valuable, non-invasive screening technique in these cases, and further investigation and management of these patients can be confidently tailored to the results of the CE-MRA study.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adult
  • Artifacts
  • Child
  • Contrast Media
  • Female
  • Graft Occlusion, Vascular / diagnosis
  • Graft Rejection / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Renovascular / etiology
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Renal Artery Obstruction / diagnosis*
  • Renal Artery Obstruction / etiology
  • Thrombosis / diagnosis
  • Thrombosis / etiology

Substances

  • Contrast Media