Role of heterotopic kidney auto-transplantation for renal artery aneurysms

To assess the applicability and surgical outcomes of ex vivo repair with heterotopic kidney auto-transplantation (HKA) for the treatment of renal artery aneurysms (RAA). We retrospectively examined 36 cases presenting with RAA from September 2005 to June 2016. Patient demographics, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and common vascular risk factors were evaluated. Patients were classified into 3 groups: those who received endovascular treatment, in situ open surgical repair, or ex vivo repair with HKA. The findings were compared among the groups. The endovascular repair, in situ open repair, and ex vivo repair with HKA groups included 14, 9, and 13 patients, respectively (mean follow-up, 30.42 ± 30.54 months). The eGFR (P = .32) and number of anti-hypertension medications (P = .33) did not significantly differ among the groups. Moreover, 3 renal infarctions were detected in the endovascular group and only 1 was detected in the in situ repair group. One patient in the endovascular repair group required dialysis due to renal failure. Patients in the ex vivo repair with HKA group did not exhibit any complications. With safety and effectiveness comparable to other RAA treatment methods, ex vivo repair with HKA for RAA treatment appears suitable particularly in cases with complicated renal artery branch aneurysm and marginal renal function.