You doctor uses a number of tools to diagnose renal artery stenosis. These include a review of your personal health history, a physical examination and the results of tests and procedures such as:
- Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive test that uses high-frequency sound waves to check for blockage in the arteries.
- Computerized tomography (CT) scan is a non-invasive test that shows cross-sectional images of the renal arteries.
- Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a non-invasive test that uses radio waves and strong magnetic fields to produce detailed images of the renal arteries and kidneys. During this test a dye is injected into the arteries to outline blood vessels.
- Renal arteriography uses X-rays to take pictures of the artery opening and blood flow. During this procedure a dye is injected into the affected artery to provide a better picture.