Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Anatomical Reconstructions of the Human Cardiac Venous System using Contrast-computed Tomography of Perfusion-fixed Specimens
Published on: April 18, 2013
Outcomes of contrast-induced nephropathy: experience in patients undergoing cardiovascular intervention
1Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan 48073, USA. pmc975@ameritech.net
Insights
Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) increases risks for patients undergoing procedures like percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Proactive measures are crucial to mitigate CIN complications and improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiology
- Radiology
Background:
- Iodinated contrast media use is rising with advancements in computed tomography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
- Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a significant complication, impacting long-term patient morbidity and mortality.
- CIN has been extensively studied in cardiology patients, revealing various adverse outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence and outcomes of CIN in cardiology patients, particularly those undergoing PCI.
- To highlight CIN-associated complications and their impact on patient mortality.
- To emphasize the importance of precautionary measures in patients at risk for CIN.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on contrast media use, CIN, and patient outcomes in cardiology.
- Analysis of reported complications associated with CIN in PCI patients.
- Examination of mortality rates in patients with CIN, including those requiring dialysis.
Main Results:
- CIN is linked to increased rates of bleeding, hematoma, stroke, ARDS, electrolyte imbalances, and sepsis in PCI patients.
- Patients with CIN undergoing PCI experience higher rates of myocardial infarction and vessel reocclusion.
- In-hospital mortality is elevated in patients with CIN, with 1-year mortality exceeding 55% for those requiring dialysis post-PCI.
Conclusions:
- CIN significantly increases mortality risk, even with moderate renal dysfunction not requiring dialysis, in patients with coronary artery disease.
- Precautionary measures, including hydration and judicious contrast media use, are vital for patients with renal insufficiency or other CIN risk factors.
- Implementing preventive strategies before, during, and after contrast media administration can reduce CIN incidence and improve patient prognosis.
Abstract:
Use of iodinated contrast media for diagnostic and interventional procedures is increasing as computed tomography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) technologies provide increasing patient benefit. Although some complications associated with contrast media are mild and transient, contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) can negatively affect long-term patient morbidity and mortality. The incidence of and outcomes from CIN have been carefully studied in cardiology patients. A number of studies have identified CIN-associated complications in PCI patients, including bleeding, hematoma, stroke, adult respiratory distress syndrome, electrolyte imbalances, and sepsis. In post-PCI patients, rates of myocardial infarction and vessel reocclusion are more common in patients with CIN. Therefore, in-hospital mortality is increased in patients with CIN. In patients requiring dialysis after PCI, several studies have shown the 1-year mortality rate to be >55%. Even moderate renal dysfunction not requiring dialysis is associated with increased mortality in patients with coronary artery disease. Precautionary measures before, during, and after the use of contrast media that reduce the incidence of CIN, such as discontinuation of nephrotoxic medications, adequate hydration, and use of appropriate volumes and types of contrast media, should be considered in all patients with renal insufficiency or with other risk factors for CIN.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiac Catheterization I: Pre-Procedure Overview
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Cardiac Catheterization IV: Nursing Management
Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
Acute Kidney Injury VI: Nursing Management