Gadolinium-enhanced computed tomography angiography in multi-detector row computed tomography: initial observations.
OBJECTIVE
The feasibility of using gadolinium contrast medium for computed tomography angiography (CTA) in multi-detector row computed tomography and the effect of contrast medium dilution was investigated.


METHODS
Three pigs were each scanned in multiple sessions with injections of non-dilute and dilute contrast medium at a dose of 0.3 mmol/kg body weight. Non-spiral dynamic scanning at a fixed mid-abdominal aortic level and thoracoabdominal CTA were performed.


RESULTS
The magnitude of peak aortic enhancement was not significantly different between dilute and non-dilute contrast medium injections (P = .88), but the former showed earlier enhancement (mean of 2.3 seconds sooner, P < .01) than the latter. CT angiography with gadolinium contrast medium showed much lower enhancement than iodine contrast medium, but small vessels were readily identifiable.


CONCLUSIONS
Gadolinium contrast medium combined with multi-detector row computed tomography may provide clinically useful CTA. Dilution of contrast medium shortens the enhancement time but has little effect on the magnitude.
Bae
Kyongtae T
KT
Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 510 S Kingshighway Boulevard, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
McDermott
Ronan
R
Gierada
David S
DS
Heiken
Jay P
JP
Nolte
Mark A
MA
Takahashi
Naoki
N
Hong
Cheng
C
D000792:Angiography; D000818:Animals; D003287:Contrast Media; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005682:Gadolinium; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D007457:Iodine Radioisotopes; D023421:Models, Animal; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement; D011857:Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D011868:Radioisotopes; D013552:Swine; D013997:Time Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
D003287:Contrast Media; D007457:Iodine Radioisotopes; D011868:Radioisotopes; D005682:Gadolinium