A single male cadaver with multiple renal arteries.

BACKGROUND

Multiple renal arteries are a frequently found variation in many studies. It is important to recognize such variations, as more complicated surgical and radiological procedures are developed. If this possibility is not considered, complications may arise.

AIMS

To increase awareness of the presence of such anatomical arrangements and allow a proper evaluation of the renal vascular anatomy.

METHODS

Variations in the renal vascular supply were observed during the dissection of an 89-year-old male Caucasian cadaver.

RESULTS

Three multiple right renal arteries branched off the abdominal aorta at different levels to supply the right kidney. Their anatomical relations to the adjacent structures were also recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant surgical and radiological difficulty may be encountered in the presence of undiagnosed variations of the renal arteries preoperatively. In selected cases, a conventional arteriography or CT angiography can be of great help in reducing unexpected problems and improving the outcome.