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Updated: Feb 19, 2026

A Large Animal Model for Acute Kidney Injury by Temporary Bilateral Renal Artery Occlusion
Published on: February 2, 2021
Acute Kidney Injury
Andrew S Levey1, Matthew T James1
1From Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, and the University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta.
Abstract:
Acute kidney injury is a heterogeneous group of conditions characterized by a sudden decrease in glomerular filtration rate, manifested by an increase in serum creatinine concentration or oliguria, and classified by stage and cause. This type of injury occurs in approximately 20% of hospitalized patients, with major complications including volume overload, electrolyte disorders, uremic complications, and drug toxicity. Management includes specific treatments according to the underlying cause and supportive treatment to prevent and manage complications. Kidney replacement therapy is used when complications cannot be managed with medical therapy alone. Despite advances in care, the mortality rate in patients requiring kidney replacement therapy remains approximately 50%.
Insights
Acute kidney injury (AKI) affects 20% of hospitalized patients, causing serious complications. Management involves treating the cause and complications, with kidney replacement therapy reserved for severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Internal Medicine
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and serious condition in hospitalized patients.
- It is characterized by a rapid decline in kidney function, indicated by increased serum creatinine or reduced urine output.
- AKI affects approximately 20% of individuals admitted to hospitals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of acute kidney injury.
- To outline the classification, complications, and management strategies for AKI.
- To highlight the significant mortality associated with severe AKI requiring kidney replacement therapy.
Main Methods:
- The abstract synthesizes current knowledge on AKI.
- It describes the clinical presentation and diagnostic indicators of AKI.
- It reviews established management principles and therapeutic interventions for AKI.
Main Results:
- AKI presents heterogeneously with varying stages and causes.
- Common complications include fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, uremia, and drug toxicity.
- Kidney replacement therapy is indicated for refractory complications, but carries a high mortality risk.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of AKI requires addressing both the underlying cause and its complications.
- Despite medical advancements, severe AKI necessitating kidney replacement therapy has a persistent high mortality rate of around 50%.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care
Acute Kidney Injury VI: Nursing Management

