Bilateral Duplication of Renal Artery in a Cadaver and Its Clinical Implications: A Case Report

In normal adult renal system, the renal artery originates from the abdominal aorta at the level of the lower border of L1 vertebrae, just below the origin of the superior mesenteric artery, one on each side. In 15-30% of the population, rare variation in origin and distribution pattern of renal artery can be seen. These variations may be attributed to anomalies in the development of the vascular system. These anomalies lead to the emergence of accessory or multiple renal arteries, causing significant variations in normal anatomical pattern. The aim of present study was to report the presence of double renal arteries on both sides, which has about 10% occurrence amongst all renal artery variations. Most commonly, double arteries are found unilaterally in approximately 30% of cases. Also, in the present case, the renal system was perfused by additional prehilar branches and polar arteries arising from either of the renal arteries. Hence, it is a rare entity. The occurrence of such variation in the vasculature of renal arteries has significant clinical implications. The knowledge of presence of aberrant or multiple renal arteries is significant for urologists, physicians, radiologists and surgeons, while performing surgeries related to kidneys, adrenal glands and associated structures.