Vascular and lymphatic complications after renal transplant

Abstract

Renal transplant is a life-saving treatment option for patients with end-stage renal disease. As with any intervention, transplantation is not without potential complications, which include disruption to arterial, venous and lymphatic structures in the region and can involve either native or transplanted anatomy. Management options range from open surgical intervention to endovascular procedures, the latter of which have become increasingly more prevalent due to their minimally invasive nature. Interventional Radiology has a diverse procedural skillset that can be utilized for successful management of post-transplant complications. Treatment modalities include, but are not limited to, embolization, thrombectomy and stent placement. The goal of this article is to explore common vascular and lymphatic complications that occur following renal transplant and review relevant minimally invasive management options. Positive treatment outcomes are essential to ensure graft, and in turn, patient survival.

Keywords: Endovascular management; Interventional radiology; Lymphatic complication; Renal transplant; Vascular complication.