Magnetic resonance angiography: current status in the planning and follow-up of endovascular treatment in lower-limb arterial disease.

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) has become an established imaging modality in the management of lower-limb arterial disease, with emerging roles in treatment planning and follow-up. Contrast-enhanced MRA is now the most widely used technique with clinically acceptable results in the majority of patients. Difficulties in imaging and image interpretation are recognised in certain subgroups, including patients with critical limb ischaemia as well as patients with stents. Although newer contrast agents and refined imaging protocols may offer some solutions to these problems, this optimism is balanced by concerns about the toxicity of certain gadolinium chelates. Further development of interventional MRA remains one of the most significant challenges in the development of magnetic resonance imaging-guided peripheral vascular intervention. The status of MRA in managing patients with lower-limb arterial disease in current clinical practice is reviewed.