The radiological investigation and treatment of the critically ischemic limb--a review.

ABSTRACT

The contribution of radiological investigation and treatment in the management of the critically ischemic lower limb is reviewed. The methods of classifying and assessing the cause, level, and severity of the arterial disease causing the ischemia are discussed with comparison of the relative merits of the various invasive and noninvasive techniques of investigation. The development of the methods of interventional radiological management is described with an indication of the relative success of the different techniques. Newer interventional developments, including intravascular brachytherapy and gene therapy are discussed.