Progression of renal artery stenosis in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization

Background Renal artery stenosis is potentially correctable by either revascularization surgery or percutaneous methods. However, appropriate use of these techniques has been hampered by a lack of data on the natural history of this disease. This study assesses the prevalence, risk factors for progression, and effect on renal function of angiographically demonstrated renal artery disease in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization. Methods The severity of renal artery stenosis was quantified in all patients who underwent abdominal aortography as part of a diagnostic cardiac catheterization study at Duke University Medical Center between January 1989 and February 1996. Results There were 14,152 patients in the study (mean age 61 ± 12 years, 62% male). Normal renal arteries were identified in 12,543 (88.7%) patients, insignificant disease (