Aorta and iliac artery

The aorta and iliac artery constitute the major blood supply to the limbs, and the atherosclerotic process ranks as the most common disorder in this region. Clinical presentation ranges from acute to chronic. Atherosclerotic disease of the aorta associated with femoropopliteal disease is not uncommon. For simplicity, the aorta and iliac artery are considered as a unit, though isolated lesions of the aorta occur. The primary indication for arteriography is in patients who are candidates for reconstructive surgery or for percutaneous balloon dilatation. While diagnosis by clinical examination or noninvasive tests is not difficult, arteriography remains the essential diagnostic technique, especially when patients become candidates for therapy. Visualization of the aortoiliac system may be accomplished by translumbar aortography, catheter arteriography, or by intravenous digital subtraction angiography