Arteriography and venography of the extremities

This paper stresses the techniques of arteriography and venography of the extremities, and the use of these modalities in the differential diagnosis of pathologic conditions. The technical areas to be covered include choice of contrast material, filming sequence, the use of aids to enhance flow (exercise, tourniquets, drugs), and approach to entry site. The value of DSA is covered briefly. The angiographic patterns of various vascular diseases are reviewed. These include arteriosclerosis, diffuse aneurysmal disease (arteriomegaly), arteritis (giant cell - temporal and Takayasu disease; other types - panarteritis nodosa, Buerger disease, collagen vascular disease), entrapment syndromes (thoracic outlet and popliteal artery), ergotism, and occupational-traumatic disease. Methods of achieving diagnostic venograms are emphasized. Controversies surrounding techniques, contrast agents, and complications are reviewed. Interpretation of positive venographic findings of acute and old venous thrombosis are discussed