[1-molar Gadobutrol as a contrast agent for digital subtraction angiography]

To evaluate one-molar Gadobutrol solution as contrast media for intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

In 10 patients (7 males, 3 females; mean age 68 years) with contraindications for the use of iodinated contrast media (n = 8 renal insufficiency, n = 2 previous allergic reaction), Gadobutrol solution (1 mol/l) was used as contrast media for DSA. Six diagnostic angiograms and four DSAs for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) were performed.

In all cases, Gadobutrol yielded sufficient contrast for diagnostic DSA. Because of dose limitations (maximum 0.3 ml/kg body weight), small amounts of iodinated contrast media were administered to complete the angiographic procedure (mean 15 ml) in two patients. Allergic reactions were not recorded in any patient. In patients with pre-existing renal insufficiency, mean serum creatinine level was not statistically significant different from the initial level (mean 2.88 mg/dl before and 2.83 mg/dl after DSA). Selective injection of Gadobutrol resulted in temporary discomfort.

One molar Gadobutrol is an alternate contrast media for DSA in patients with contraindications for iodinated contrast media. Current dose limitations require selective injections.