Does renal stenting help patients with renal artery stenosis?

This randomized controlled trial by authors from multiple countries was undertaken to determine the efficacy and safety of stent placement in patients with atherosclerosis renal artery stenosis (ARAS) and impaired renal function. Randomization was concealed, but patients, providers, and outcome assessors were not blinded. They enrolled 140 patients with creatinine clearance less than 80 mL/min per 1.73 m2 and ARAS of 50% or greater. Stent placement and medical treatment (64 patients) was compared with medical treatment only (76 patients). Medical treatment consisted of antihypertensive treatment, a statin, and aspirin. The primary end point was a 20% or greater decrease in creatinine clearance.  more