title: Contrast medium administration and image acquisition parameters in renal CT angiography: what radiologists need to know.
abstract: Over the last decade, exponential advances in computed tomography (CT) technology have resulted in improved spatial and temporal resolution. Faster image acquisition enabled renal CT angiography to become a viable and effective noninvasive alternative in diagnosing renal vascular pathologies. However, with these advances, new challenges in contrast media administration have emerged. Poor synchronization between scanner and contrast media administration have reduced the consistency in image quality with poor spatial and contrast resolution. Comprehensive understanding of contrast media dynamics is essential in the design and implementation of contrast administration and image acquisition protocols. This review includes an overview of the parameters affecting renal artery opacification and current protocol strategies to achieve optimal image quality during renal CT angiography with iodinated contrast media, with current safety issues highlighted.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon. fe19@aub.edu.lb.
authors.forename: Charbel
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Saade
authors.forename: Ibrahim Alsheikh
authors.initials: IA
authors.lastname: Deeb
authors.forename: Maha
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Mohamad
authors.forename: Hussain
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Al-Mohiy
authors.forename: Fadi
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: El-Merhi
mesh_terms: D000072226:Computed Tomography Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006801:Humans; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D007668:Kidney / Q000098:blood supply / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D000072177:Radiologists; D012077:Renal Artery / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D012079:Renal Circulation
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media