MR angiography of peripheral arteriosclerotic occlusive disease

In our days, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a promising tool for n on-invasive imaging of vessels. Novel developments, such as contrast-enhanc ed MRA and technical improvements like moving tables allow imaging of vesse ls over a long distance. Therefore, examination of peripheral, arteries is now possible in the clinical setting. First clinical experiences revealed t he diagnostic reliability of MRA for visualization of pelvic and upper leg arteries. Problems at the lower legs due to low signal-to-noise ratios can be overcome by use of dedicated phased-array coils which increase significa ntly the signal-to-noise ratio. However, distal foot arteries are not withi n the field of view. If those vessels are of interest, an additional measur ement is necessary. Venous overlap at the lower legs and feet can be reduce d with biphasic (hybrid) contrast agent application strategies. Further imp rovements in gradient hardware resulting in shorter measurement times will make these biphasic techniques unnecessary.