The value of 16-slice multidetector computed tomographic angiography in preoperative appraisal of vascular anatomy in potential living renal donors

BackgroundComprehensive preoperative appraisal of potential living renal donors is the key for selecting a proper donor and a suitable kidney.ObjectiveTo prospectively assess the diagnostic value of 16-slice multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in preoperative appraisal of vascular anatomy in potential living renal donors.Materials and methodsPreoperative angiography using a 16-slice MDCT scanner was performed in 68 consecutive potential living renal donors. The MDCT angiography included unenhanced and contrast-enhanced multiphasic scans. The MDCT images were reviewed for the number and branching pattern of the renal arteries and for the number and presence of major or minor variants of the renal veins. The results were compared with the actual anatomy at the open donor nephrectomy as the diagnostic standard of reference.ResultsThe sensitivity and the specificity of MDCT angiography for the detection of various anatomic variants of renal arteries as well as renal venous anomalies were 100%. The anatomic variants of renal arteries included accessory arteries (n = 7) and early arterial branching (n = 10). Whereas, the detected venous anomalies were of major category of the circumaortic left renal vein anomaly (n = 2). No minor renal venous anomaly was identified in any subject.Conclusion16-Slice MDCT angiography is highly accurate for preoperative assessment of diverse anomalies of the renal vascular anatomy in potential living renal donors; in consequence, it markedly affects the surgical planning.