Gadolinium magnetic angioresonance in the study of aortoiliac disease

There is a need for noninvasive methods for the early identification of patients with intermittent claudication who need surgical treatment. Newer magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) techniques allow detailed study of the arterial tree with image quality similar to that of conventional arteriography. From April 1997 to January 2001, 30 patients with intermittent claudication of the lower limbs were studied with both imaging methods. In each case, the MRA images were examined first and the arteriographic images were examined 15 days later. Examiners interpreting the arteriographic images were blinded to the results of the corresponding MRA images. After each examination (MRA and arteriography), a vascular surgeon suggested a surgical plan. MRA showed results similar to those of arteriography, although with inferior image quality. No patient had an allergic reaction or side effects due to administration of contrast material. There was total agreement between MRA and arteriography in regard to the morphologic analysis and proposed surgical plans in every case. In conclusion, MRA is a feasible, useful, and less invasive alternative for the morphologic evaluation of the aortofemoral area in patients with intermittent claudication of lower limbs.