Imaging of peripheral arteries by 16-row multidetector computed tomography angiography: a feasible tool?
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the efficacy of multidetector (16-row) computed tomography (MDCT) in imaging the upper and lower limb arterial tree in trauma and peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD).


METHODS
Thirty-three patients underwent MDCT angiography (MDCTA) of the upper or the lower limb on 16-row MDCT scanner between November, 2004 and July, 2005. The findings were compared with the surgical outcome in cases with trauma and suspected arterial injuries or color Doppler correlation was obtained for patients of PAOD.


RESULTS
MDCTA allowed a comprehensive diagnostic work-up in all trauma cases with suspected arterial injuries. In the 23 cases of PAOD, MDCT adequately demonstrated the presence of stenosis or occlusion, its degree and extent, the presence of collaterals and plaques.


CONCLUSIONS
Our experience of CT angiography (CTA) with 16-row MDCT scanner has clearly demonstrated its efficacy as a promising, new, fast, accurate, safe and non-invasive imaging modality of choice in cases of trauma with suspected arterial injuries and as a useful screening modality in cases of PAOD for diagnosis and for grading.
Mishra
Anuj
A
Department of Radiology, National Organ Transplant Program, Tripoli, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Libya. dranujmish@yahoo.com
Bhaktarahalli
Jahnavi Narayanaswamy
JN
Ehtuish
Ehtuish F
EF
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000792:Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D001157:Arterial Occlusive Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D001158:Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods; D018615:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging