American Board of Pathology (ABPath) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The technique primarily used to evaluate renal artery stenosis is ultrasound Doppler. This non-invasive imaging method allows for the assessment of blood flow in the renal arteries by measuring the direction and velocity of blood flow. Doppler ultrasound can provide valuable information about the presence of stenosis, as increased velocities in blood flow can indicate areas of narrowing or blockage in the artery.

Ultrasound is advantageous in this context because it does not involve radiation exposure, making it a safer option for patients, especially in cases where repeated imaging may be necessary. Additionally, it can be performed at the bedside and is relatively cost-effective compared to other imaging modalities.

While other techniques such as X-ray angiography and CT angiography also play roles in the evaluation of renal artery stenosis, they are typically more invasive and involve exposure to ionizing radiation or contrast agents, which can be less ideal for certain patients. Renal biopsy is not relevant for evaluating renal artery stenosis, as it is primarily used for diagnosing renal parenchymal disease rather than assessing vascular conditions.