Low volume contrast CTPA in patients with renal dysfunction
Tushar Singh1, Kay-Vin Lam, Conor Murray
1Department of Radiology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia. doctsingh@gmail.com
Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology
|April 20, 2011
Summary
Low-volume CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) using 30 mL contrast is feasible. This method provides excellent enhancement of pulmonary arteries, making it a viable option for patients needing pulmonary embolism diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Evaluating reduced contrast volume for CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA).
- Assessing the technical feasibility of low-volume contrast CTPA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if 30 mL of contrast is sufficient for diagnostic CTPA.
- To evaluate the technical success of a low-volume contrast CTPA protocol.
Main Methods:
- CTPA performed on 24 patients with renal dysfunction and suspected pulmonary embolism using 30 mL contrast.
- Modified protocol with central superior vena cava (SVC) monitoring and contrast arrival-triggered scanning.
- Hounsfield unit (HU) measurements in pulmonary arteries to assess enhancement.
Main Results:
- High pulmonary arterial enhancement achieved (average 247 HU).
- Significant enhancement (>200 HU) in lobar, segmental, and subsegmental arteries.
- Only one non-diagnostic study out of 24.
Conclusions:
- Low-volume CTPA is technically feasible.
- Excellent enhancement of the pulmonary arterial tree is achievable with 30 mL contrast.
- This technique offers a viable alternative for pulmonary embolism diagnosis.
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