MR angiography of the abdominal aorta and peripheral vessels

MR angiography (MRA), in particular gadolinium (Gd)-enhanced three-dimensional MRA, is well suited for the evaluation of patients with suspected or known disease of the abdominal aorta and peripheral vessels [1 - 3]. In most of these patients, the underlying vascular disease is degenerative and associated with atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis and its related sequelae are leading causes for morbidity and mortality in the Western world. Renal insufficiency is prevalent in this population because of underlying diabetes mellitus or renal artery disease. The ability of MRA to provide reliable arterial depiction without the need for the use of nephrotoxic contrast agents (eg, iodinated contrast media) is one of the more compelling arguments for the use of MRA in this patient population.