Renal revascularization after intrarenal implantation of the splenic artery with a distal arteriovenous fistula.

Renal revascularization by splenic artery implantation was performed in 5 dogs using a temporary arteriovenous fistula in the distal end of the implanted artery for the purpose of increasing the blood flow and counteracting the thrombus formation in the artery. Following creation of renal artery stenosis, the revascularization process was evaluated by serial consecutive splenic arteriographies and by estimation of blood flow through the implanted arteries. The experimental animals survived occlusion of the ipsilateral renal artery and contralateral nephrectomy with maintenance of a reasonably good renal function. The present study also indicates a facilitation of a vascularization from the implanted artery when the initial thrombus formation within the artery was prevented by creation of such a fistula.