Carbon dioxide: an alternative to iodinated contrast media

Abstract

Objectives: 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.