Claudication
A patient experiencing pain, cramping, and fatigue in the lower extremities was referred Radiology and the 3DQ Lab for imaging, assessment, and visualization. Symptoms like these indicate claudication, a condition caused by inadequate blood supply to the muscles. Previously performed imaging analysis of the patient revealed severe peripheral artery disease (PAD), a narrowing and obstruction of the arteries primarily caused by a buildup of fatty plaque. A bilateral aortobifemoral bypass graft surgery had been performed to create alternative blood flow pathways from the aorta to the femoral arteries to restore blood supply to the lower extremities; but the recurrence of claudication prompted further intervention.
Figure A (Right): Rotational Volume Rendering showing the pelvis (grey), arterial blood flow (red) and calcification of the blood vessels (green). The lack of continuous arterial paths down the legs indicate locations of reduced or blocked blood flow.
Figure B: A Maximum Intensity Projection (MIP) image gives a clear picture of the major arteries and shows any calcification, blockages, or narrowing.
Figure C: 3D visualizations of imaging data show a hematoma located near the right femoral artery, in the context of the bone, iliac and femoral arteries.
Figure D: A Curved Planar Reformation, showing the arteries as they branch down the lower extremities, was used to visualize the path of blood vessels. Guide lines were added at regular intervals for use in measurement.
Marc Sofilos
Kyle Gifford
