[Digital subtraction angiography with carbon dioxide--basic principles, technique and clinical application]

Abstract

Carbon dioxide digital subtraction angiography Carbon dioxide (CO2) digital subtraction angiography offers the possibility for diagnostic and interventional angiographic procedures in high risk patients for ionidated contrast material. As a gaseous contrast agent its physicochemical properties have special requirements concerning the radiologists knowledge, the X-ray equipment, the injector and the catheters. This article reviews the current literature concerning the history, physics and physiology, indications and contraindications, clinical use, adverse effects and possible complications of carbon dioxide digital subtraction angiography.