Cross-sectional pattern of collateral vessels in patients with superficial femoral artery occlusion

Invest Radiol. 2001 Jul;36(7):422-9. doi: 10.1097/00004424-200107000-00008.

Abstract

Rationale and objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify the cross-sectional location of collateral vessels in patients with peripheral vascular disease on three-dimensional magnetic resonance angiograms (3D MRAs) to suggest sites for intravascular or transcutaneous angiogenesis gene delivery in the lower extremity.

Methods: The axial locations were measured and categorized by tissue compartments, as well as by radial coordinates with respect to the femur.

Results: Collateral vessels in the thigh were identified in 24 of 93 consecutive patients who underwent peripheral 3D MRA. Ninety-one percent (99/109) of the observed collaterals were located near the adductor canal level of the thigh, with 78% (31/46) of these collaterals located in the fat in or surrounding the posterior muscle.

Conclusions: The majority of collateral vessels in the thigh are located in the fat or muscle within the posterior compartment near the femur at the level of the adductor canal.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / pathology*
  • Collateral Circulation*
  • Female
  • Femoral Artery / diagnostic imaging
  • Femoral Artery / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography / methods
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Popliteal Artery / pathology
  • Radiography
  • Thigh / anatomy & histology
  • Thigh / blood supply*
  • Thigh / diagnostic imaging