Ligation of the left renal vein

In abdominal aortic reconstruction it is sometimes necessary to ligate and divide the left renal vein in order to avoid injury to this vessel and to secure better access to the aorta and/or the renal arteries. The procedure was utilized in 11 such patients, who were followed up clinically and with renography. No untoward sequelae were found, and it is concluded that the procedure as a rule may safely be performed.