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Summary
Water-soluble contrast media used for cerebral angiography can contain nonviable particles. Filtering these contrast agents to 5 micrometers or less is recommended to improve patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Materials Science
- Pharmaceutical Science
Background:
- Water-soluble contrast media are essential for cerebral angiography.
- Previous research has not extensively investigated particle contamination in these agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate particle contamination in commonly used water-soluble contrast media for cerebral angiography.
- To identify the types and sizes of particles present and their elemental composition.
Main Methods:
- Five brands of water-soluble contrast media (sodium methylglucamine 60%) were analyzed.
- Coulter counter used for particle size screening (5–10 μm, 10–30 μm, >30 μm).
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) for particle verification and elemental analysis.
Main Results:
- Particles were detected in contrast media from both ampules and vials.
- Mean particle count exceeded 302 particles/mL (>5 μm) in ampule-contained media.
- Particles up to 500 μm were observed, with elemental composition including Ca, Cl, Co, Cr, Fe, I, K, Mn, Na, Si, and Zn.
Conclusions:
- Commonly used water-soluble contrast media contain intrinsic nonviable particles.
- Particle contamination poses a potential risk in cerebral angiography procedures.
- Filtering contrast media to ≤5 μm is recommended to mitigate risks.