The value of multiple-plane angiography in the assessment of aortoiliac disease.

: Aortography, regarded as a definite diagnostic study in evaluating pateints with peripheral vascular occlusive disease, is usually done in the anteroposterior projection only. Occasionally, a significantly diseased area may not be identified on this projection, and an oblique view of the aortoiliac region may clarify the presence and severity of arteriosclerosis. At present, our indications for obtaining oblique views of the aortoiliac region are (1) when symptoms correlate poorly with the arteriographic findings in the anteroposterior projection, or (2) when the severity of the lesion is in doubt. These projections also are used to evaluate patients who have had previous aortoiliac bypass grafts and in whom ischemic symptoms recur. Patients with unilateral limb ischemia who are being considered for femorofemoral bypass graft procedures or iliac endarterectomy are also appropriate candidates, especially when radiopaque material overlies the vessels. Arteriograms in oblique projections also are recommended for more precise evaluation of the origin of the profunda femoris artery.