Lower extremity arteriography: Comparison of a prototype low-dose, high-resolution technique and standard methods

One hundred forty-two sequential lower extremity arteriograms obtained with a prototype rotational scanographic apparatus are being compared with arteriograms obtained using either a step-table system or a multiexposure long leg changer. All techniques become significantly more accurate if inflow is studied separately and if peripheral studies are performed with balloon occlusion technique. The rotational scanographic technique has two advantages: lower patient exposure, and superb vessel definition in areas difficult to image, such as the lower leg and foot, where there is bony overlap. The rotational scanographic apparatus essentially eliminates scatter, which allows a high-kilovoltage technique to be used to penetrate bony cortex yet still image extremely tiny superficial vessels