Closed-system venography in the evaluation of angiodysplastic lesions of the extremities.

Closed-system venography is a minimally invasive, well tolerated method for diagnosing and delineating extremity angiodysplastic lesions. This method involves passive filling of the vascular tree after compressive exsanguination of an extremity and extrinsic occlusion of its arterial supply and venous drainage, thereby creating a static, closed system. Closed-system venography was done in 17 patients, where it correctly identified 11 of 12 surgically confirmed vascular abnormalities. There were no false-positive examinations. Whereas ateriography remains the examination of choice in studying arteriovenous malformations, closed-system venography has demonstrated a superior ability to diagnose and define lesions of capillary and venous origin.