Clinical implications of the vascular laboratory in the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease

Abstract

The rightful place of the vascular laboratory and its various tools in the evaluation of the patient with peripheral vascular disease is ever changing. Our expanding understanding of the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and natural history of peripheral vascular disorders1-3 must constantly be coupled with an appreciation of current diagnostic and therapeutic tools (magnetic resonance angiography, operating room angiography, radiographic suite angiography, and angioplasty/stenting). This section will provide an entry point into clinical problem solving by considering the areas of screening, assessment prior to and immediately after intervention, surveillance (long-term, usually after intervention), and certain special areas of the peripheral arterial system. © 2007 Springer-Verlag London Limited.