A comparison of nuclear magnetic resonance and intravenous xeroangiography with conventional arteriography in popliteal artery imaging.

Twenty-nine patients with peripheral vascular disease had the popliteal artery segment assessed by xeroangiography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) scanning. The result of each test was compared with conventional contrast arteriography. Nuclear magnetic resonance and xeroangiography correctly predicted popliteal artery patency in 97% and 100% of limbs, respectively, and occlusion was correctly predicted in 44% and 63% of limbs. The ability of xeroangiography to define the state of the popliteal artery accurately makes this a useful method in high-risk patients. The potential for NMR imaging appears very promising but more work is required to define its future clinical application.