Anatomic localization of atherosclerotic lesions by hemodynamic tests.

Use of noninvasive tests to assess the severity of lower-extremity occlusive lesions is generally accepted. To evaluate the effectiveness of noninvasive vascular-laboratory tests in locating atherosclerotic lesions, the results of hemodynamic studies in 100 patients were reviewed by both skilled observers and a vascular computer, and compared with angiograms. The results of the comparison suggest a remarkable sensitivity of the vascular-laboratory tests in locating significant arterial obstructions, and underscore that the great predictive value of a negative results gives the physician reliable information on the patency of a given arterial segment. Computer interpretation proved less accurate than that of the vascular-laboratory personnel.