Upper extremity contrast medium infusion in computed tomography of upper mediastinal masses

Infusion of dilute contrast agent through an upper extremity vein results in marked opacification of the superior vena cava and the ipsilateral subclavian and brachiocephalic veins in computed tomography of the upper mediastinum. Also, the cranial arteries are well opacified. Images obtained by this method display anatomical relationships to better advantage and permit more accurate interpretation of anatomical relationships of the upper mediastinal masses. Improved anatomical details are obtained as compared to noncontrast scans or scans after bolus injection. In cases of suspected venous occlusion, functional diagnostic information is also achieved.