[Results of transvenous digital subtraction angiography with a 57 cm image intensifier in circulatory disorders of the lower extremities].

The size of conventional image intensifiers is a limiting factor in performing transvenous digital subtraction angiography of the lower extremities. The results of transvenous digital subtraction angiography using a 57 cm image intensifier on 205 patients with vasoocclusive disease of the legs are presented. Two exposed fields sufficed in most cases for demonstration of all arteries, from the aortic bifurcation to the trifurcation at the lower leg. The principal advantages were the reduction of the contrast medium volume and the decrease in examination time. The reduced resolving power was a limiting factor in evaluating discrete wall lesions and of small vessels, but this did not induce diagnostic difficulties. The studies were evaluated retrospectively by an experienced vascular surgeon and in 85% of the cases were considered to be of diagnostic value.