Gd-DTPA as an alternative contrast agent in conventional and interventional radiology

Abstract

Purpose: Patients with contra-indications to iodine-based contrast media present problems in radiological examination. In this study, we evaluated Gd-DTPA as an alternative contrast agent in conventional and interventional radiology.

Material and methods: The undiluted contrast agent Gd-DTPA meglumine (469 mg/ml, Magnevist) was used in 10 examinations in 8 patients. A dosage of 20-45 ml was used in 5 conventional studies: endoscopic retrograde cholangiography, cystography, urethrocystography, and 2 retrograde pyelographies. A dosage of 10-120 ml was used in 5 interventions: 1 percutaneous nephrostomy, and 4 biliary tract drainages.

Results: The image quality was adequate in all studies. No adverse pharmacological reactions occurred; however, there was renal extravasation of Gd-DTPA which did cause temporary pain in 1 patient at bilateral retrograde pyelography.

Conclusion: Gd-DTPA may be used as an alternative contrast medium in selected conventional and interventional roentgenological studies when iodine is contra-indicated.