Helical computed tomography angiography in the evaluation of Chinese living renal donors

To determine the suitability of helical computed tomography angiography (CTA), recently used in the anatomical evaluation of potential living renal donors (LRDs) in the Caucasian population, for Chinese LRDs.

Eighteen consecutive potential LRD candidates underwent both CTA and conventional renal angiography (CRA). Results from each were interpreted while unaware of the results from the other. Renal function was monitored after each radiological procedure.

Both procedures were able to identify all four accessory renal arteries present. One prehilar branch of < 1 mm in diameter was not recognized on CTA. Renal artery ostial stenosis in one subject with normal blood pressure was identified on CTA, but not on CRA. CTA better delineated the renal venous and parenchymal anatomy and cost 60% less than CRA. There was no change in renal function after either procedure.

Despite there being few subjects. CTA has potential value as an alternative to CRA for the anatomical assessment of potential LRDs in Hong Kong. Advantages include a short examination time, non-invasiveness and lower cost. CTA may provide an opportunity to living-related and unrelated renal donor transplantation in this conservative Chinese culture.