The management of pediatric renovascular hypertension: a single center experience and review of the literature

Introduction

Renal artery occlusive disease is poorly characterized in children; treatments include medications, endovascular techniques, and surgery. We aimed to describe the course of renovascular hypertension (RVH), its treatments and outcomes.

Methods

We performed literature review and retrospective review (1993–2014) of children with renovascular hypertension at our institution. Response to treatment was defined by National High Blood Pressure Education Program Working Group on High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents at most-recent follow-up.

Results

We identified 39 patients with RVH. 54% (n = 21) were male, with mean age of 6.93 ± 5.27 years. Most underwent endovascular treatment (n = 17), with medication alone (n = 12) and surgery (n = 10) less commonly utilized. Endovascular treatment resulted in 18% cure, 65% improvement and 18% failure; surgery resulted in 30% cure, 50% improvement and 20% failure. Medication alone resulted in 0% cure, 75% improvement and 25% failure. 24% with endovascular treatment required secondary endovascular intervention; 18% required secondary surgery. 20% of patients who underwent initial surgery required reoperation for re-stenosis. Mean follow-up was 52.2 ± 58.4 months.

Conclusions

RVH treatment in children includes medications, surgical or endovascular approaches, with all resulting in combined 79% improvement in or cure rates. A multidisciplinary approach and individualized patient management are critical to optimize outcomes.

Type of Study

Retrospective comparative study

Level of evidence

Level III