The effects of media viscosity on hemodynamics in selective arteriography

Radiographic contrast media used for arteriography are generally more viscous than plasma or blood; however, little consideration is given to the hemodynamic effects of contrast media viscosity. In this study, in vivo and in vitro injection of isotonic solutions of saline and polyvinylpyrrolidone, having viscosities from 0.8 to 26 centipoise, have been made. The results demonstrate that, when the viscous saline reaches the microcirculation, the resistance to flow increases. The viscous saline thus significantly decreases flow immediately after the injection. At that time the pressure in the artery equals aortic pressure, but the local vascular resistance is elevated because of the viscous material present in the arterioles. Viscous contrast media would cause similar hemodynamic changes during and immediately following an injection. The effects of contrast media hypertonicity, however, modify the viscosity-related changes shortly after the contrast media reaches the capillaries.