Carbon dioxide: an alternative to iodinated contrast media.
OBJECTIVE
To study the use of carbon dioxide as a contrast medium for arteriography.


METHODS
Carbon dioxide was used as a contrast medium for intra-arterial digital subtraction lower limb angiography in 12 examinations on 11 patients.


RESULTS
No complication was encountered and no significant changes occurred in the arterial pH, PaCO2 and PaO2. The quality of images as assessed by an independent observer was adequate for the majority of the vessels (77%).


CONCLUSIONS
Carbon dioxide is a safe alternative in patients at an increased risk of adverse reaction to iodinated ionic or non-ionic contrast medium and is very cheap.
Yusuf
S W
SW
Vascular Unit, University Hospital, Nottingham, U.K.
Whitaker
S C
SC
Hinwood
D
D
Henderson
M J
MJ
Gregson
R H
RH
Wenham
P W
PW
Hopkinson
B R
BR
Makin
G S
GS
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015901:Angiography, Digital Subtraction; D002245:Carbon Dioxide / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000097:blood; D003287:Contrast Media; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D007479:Iopamidol; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply*; D010100:Oxygen / Q000097:blood; D010313:Partial Pressure; D011446:Prospective Studies
D003287:Contrast Media; D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D007479:Iopamidol; D010100:Oxygen