Reversal of end stage renal failure with surgical revascularization in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery occlusion.

A total of 9 patients with end stage renal failure caused by atherosclerotic renal artery occlusion underwent surgical revascularization with subsequent recovery of renal function. The duration of dialysis preoperatively ranged from 1 week to 13 months. In all cases renal viability was being maintained by collateral vascular supply. Postoperatively, renal function improved immediately and no patient required subsequent dialysis. Excellent over-all rehabilitation was achieved in all patients. Six patients currently are alive at a mean interval of 4.0 years postoperatively and with satisfactory renal function (mean serum creatinine 2.7 mg. per dl.). Three patients died at a mean interval of 6.8 years postoperatively and they all maintained satisfactory renal function (mean serum creatinine 3.0 mg. per dl.) until death. In some patients with end stage renal failure caused by atherosclerotic arterial occlusion surgical renal revascularization can yield extended survival with freedom from chronic dialysis.