Skip to content

Programs & Services - Medical Imaging

Angiography > Exams & Procedures > Renal Artery Embolization

This is an arterial study performed similar to a renal angiogram. The purpose of this procedure is to block the blood supply to the kidney (before nephrectomy surgery) or a specific region of the kidney for abnormal blood flow or bleeding.

The procedure takes about one to two hours.

Preparation

  • If you are diabetic, do everything you would normally do. Do not take your metformin. A blood test will be done once you arrive in hospital.
  • If you are not diabetic, do not have anything to eat or drink after midnight.
  • If you are taking aspirin, Coumadin, Tyclid, Plavix or Aggrenox please stop taking this medication one week before, but only with your doctor's approval.
  • Please take all of your medications with a small amount of water, especially heart and blood pressure medications.
  • If you have had a previous allergic reaction to contrast media (X-ray dye), please inform us and your doctor in advance. Your doctor may order a medication for you to take prior to your procedure.
  • You will need someone to take you home and stay with you overnight, if there is no other adult at home.