Doppler ultrasound in peripheral artery disease: Continuous application ofa signal enhancer.

Purpose: The effect of continuous infusion of a signal enhancer on the diag nostic efficacy of Doppler ultrasound in peripheral artery disease was eval uated. Methods: 35 patients with peripheral artery disease were investigate d by Doppler ultrasound before and during infusion of a signal enhancer (Le vovist(R)). Femoral and popliteal arteries were examined. Angiographic diag noses included oc clusions (24) and stenoses (22). They were compared to pl ain and enhanced Doppler findings. Artefacts and effects on signal intensit y were evaluated. Results: An increased Doppler signal was observed startin g 1 min 35 s (mean) after begin of the infusion. It persisted for 11 min 46 s (mean). Signal enhanced studies provided less over-(0/1) and underestima tion (3/5) of the findings and evaluation in the adductor channel was less compromised. Signal enhanced studies highlighted collaterals. Conclusion: D oppler ultrasound in patients with peripheral arterial disease is improved by continuous application of a signal enhancer.