Role of magnetic resonance angiography in peripheral vascular disease

Abstract

Imaging of the vascular system is an essential component in the preoperative and postoperative management of patients with peripheral vascular disease of the lower extremities. Traditionally, contrast angiography, especially digital subtraction angiography, has been the gold standard for imaging of the arterial system. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) provides excellent visualization of the inflow and outflow vessels in most cases. The disadvantages of DSA are that it is invasive, costly, and not completely safe. Complications are rare but include contrast-related nephrotoxicity, allergic reactions, arterial injury with hemorrhage, thrombosis, or embolization. Because of this, less invasive imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance arteriography (MRA), have been developed. © 2007 Springer-Verlag London Limited.