[Digital subtraction angiography with carbon dioxide using a new gas dosage system]

The clinical evaluation of digital subtraction angiography with carbon dioxide using a newly developed low-tech CO2 dosage and injection system.

The hand-held system (CO2 angio set) consists of a dosage chamber in connection with a special stopcock to apportion the gas. By optimising injection volume and pressure steady gas flow characteristics are approximated. A safety design prevents unintentional gas injection. CO2 arteriographies were performed on 185 patients. Main indications were renal insufficiency and a history of adverse reactions to iodinated contrast media. In patients with femoral cannula access, catheterless reflux angiography was performed.

The injection system provided complete and coherent visualisation of the abdominal aorta, visceral, pelvic, and lower limb arteries via catheter (71 cases) or via femoral cannula using reflux technique (114 cases). Stenoses, occlusions, and collaterals were assessable. Employing the gas reflux over the aortic bifurcation bilateral run-off studies up to the calf trifurcation were performed via unilateral femoral cannula. Use of a dedicated stacking software improved image quality of distal femoral, popliteal and calf arteries.

The CO2 management system allows adequate imaging of the arteries below the diaphragm. Ease and safety of use and low costs are advantageous.