Finding the right tests…
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Emergency services available 24 x 7
Finding the right tests…
CT Scan
Living kidney donation depends on surgeons knowing precisely how each kidney's blood vessels are arranged before they operate. CT renal donor evaluation is the scan that supplies this map for a person being considered as a living kidney donor. It focuses on the renal arteries and veins supplying each kidney, including any extra or accessory vessels, and on the ureter and the kidney's internal drainage system. This detail matters because surgery to remove a donor kidney is usually done through small incisions, with limited direct view of the vessels, so the surgical team relies heavily on this scan to plan the safest approach. The scan also helps decide which of the two kidneys is better suited for donation.
This scan maps the renal arteries and veins for each kidney, including any accessory vessels, along with the ureters and the kidney's drainage system. Your report describes the vascular anatomy of both kidneys, which helps the surgical team choose which kidney to take and how to plan the operation.
Living kidney donation is usually done through small surgical incisions, which means the surgeon has a limited direct view of the blood vessels during the operation. CT renal donor evaluation fills that gap beforehand, using contrast dye and a scan taken in multiple phases to map each kidney's vessels in detail.
- The main renal artery and vein supplying each kidney, plus any accessory or extra vessels - The ureter and the kidney's internal collecting system - The size and position of both kidneys
Kidney donor imaging focuses closely on renal artery and vein anatomy, including branching patterns and accessory vessels, since these details determine which kidney is easier and safer to remove and how the vessels will be reconnected in the recipient. Liver donor imaging instead centres on liver volume alongside its vessels, since volume is what matters most for that organ.
Where anatomy allows, surgeons generally prefer to use the kidney with more straightforward vessel anatomy, so this scan often helps decide left versus right.
This scan uses an iodine-based contrast dye, so tell the team about any past contrast reaction or kidney condition. It also involves radiation exposure across the imaging phases used.
Kidney donor surgery is usually done through small incisions, which limits the surgeon's direct view. This scan maps the vessels in advance so the team can plan the safest approach.
No. It is one part of a wider evaluation that includes blood tests and other assessments. The transplant team makes the final decision together.
It shows the vessel anatomy of both kidneys. Where the anatomy is more straightforward on one side, that kidney is often preferred for donation.
Accessory vessels are common and do not automatically rule out donation. The surgical team plans around whatever anatomy the scan shows.
This page is general information about the test, not medical advice. Your own report's reference ranges apply — please discuss your results with your doctor.
Yes, it is typically taken in multiple phases so the arteries, veins, and drainage system can each be seen clearly.
No. It is imaging done beforehand. It does not remove any tissue or treat any condition.
Tell your team about any existing kidney problems, since this affects both donation suitability and how the contrast dye is handled.
Preparation can vary by centre. Ask your doctor or the centre for instructions before your appointment.