Iopamidol, a new nonionic contrast medium in peripheral angiography

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Vascular Imaging
• Medical Contrast Agents

Background:

• Diatrizoate is a commonly used ionic contrast medium for angiography.
• Nonionic contrast media offer potential advantages in patient comfort and safety.
• Severe arteriosclerosis presents challenges for vascular imaging procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of iopamidol versus diatrizoate in aortofemoral runoff angiography.
• To evaluate patient-reported pain and discomfort associated with each contrast medium.
• To assess the hemodynamic effects of iopamidol and diatrizoate.

Main Methods:

• A controlled clinical trial was conducted.
• Fifty severely arteriosclerotic patients undergoing aortofemoral runoff angiography were included.
• Iopamidol (B 15,000) was compared directly against diatrizoate (Urografin 60%).

Main Results:

• Iopamidol was found to be superior to diatrizoate in reducing post-injection pain and discomfort.
• Both contrast media caused only slight to moderate alterations in aortic blood pressure and pulse rate.
• The hemodynamic influence of iopamidol was significantly less pronounced than that of diatrizoate.

Conclusions:

• Iopamidol is a preferable nonionic contrast medium for aortofemoral runoff angiography in severely arteriosclerotic patients.
• Iopamidol offers improved patient comfort due to reduced pain and discomfort.
• Iopamidol exhibits a more favorable hemodynamic profile compared to diatrizoate.