Intravenous cholangiography: experimental evaluation of the time-density-retention concept

The time-density-retention concept was evaluated in chronic cholecystectomized bile fistula dogs with normal hepatic function, partial common bile duct obstruction, and hepatic parenchymal disease using either iodipamide or iodoxamate. In all investigated conditions, the maximum biliary iodine concentration was found earlier with iodoxamate than iodipamide but the difference was only significant in partial common bile duct obstruction. In this condition a significant delay in attaining the maximum biliary iodine concentration was found with iodipamide but not with iodoxamate. It is concluded that the time-density-retention concept represents a valid radiographic criterion for the diagnosis of partial common bile duct obstruction in cholecystectomized or cystic duct occluded subjects when iodipamide but not iodoxamate is used as contrast agent.