Multicenter Validation Study of Real Time (B Mode) Ultrasound, Arteriography, and Pathology: IV. Comparison of B Mode Ultrasonic Imaging with Arteriography in Lower Extremity Arteries

In 1980, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) issued a proposal for the assessment of ultrasonic B-scan imaging for detection and quantification of atherosclerotic lesions in human carotid and iliofemoral arteries (1). [In response to this, contracts were issued in 1981 to five clinical centers, one animal center, and a data coordinating center (2). The project consisted of several phases extending over three years.] Although the original NHLBI contract was to be equally dividen between the carotid and iliofemoral systems, the six-month pilot phase demonstrated that the major emphasis would be in the carotid system. Several reasons for this were present.