The use of kidneys from deceased donors is increasing due to organ shortages. When abnormal kidneys are detected during organ retrieval from brain-dead donors, it can be difficult for the surgeon to decide how to manage the retrieved organ. We present a case of a rare renal anomaly encountered during deceased donor multiorgan retrieval. This kidney had four renal arteries: one primary artery and three accessory renal arteries. The renal arteries were found to enter the renal parenchyma from both medial and lateral surfaces. Accessory renal arteries have been reported to enter the kidney from the medial surface. Here, we report for the first time an accessory renal artery supplying and entering the kidney from the lateral surface. The retrieval surgical team should be aware of anatomical variations to avoid wastage of precious organs.
Mehra et al. (Thu,) studied this question.