Preoperative duplex scanning prior to infrainguinal revascularization.

Arterial occlusive disease has been successfully evaluated with ultrasonography prior to infrainguinal revascularization; this technique contributes to design of operation and, in the case of a bypass, to the selection of a venous conduit. Techniques of black-and-white and color sonoangiography of the peripheral arteries and veins comprise imaging and blood velocimetry. Velocity and flow measurements and other data in the literature that compare ultrasound and radiologic techniques indicate that sonoangiography is already the "practical standard" for vein selection and will have a growing role in preparation for infrainguinal revascularization.