IV Contrast Selection for MDCT: Current Thoughts and Practice

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review studies evaluating how contrast concentration affects MDCT of the body and to report IV contrast infusion protocols from MDCT angiography and MDCT of abdominal tumors. Higher concentrations (350 mg I/mL or greater) may improve visualization of small abdominal arteries. However, preliminary data comparing 300 mg I/mL to higher concentrations for MDCT of hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic cancer have shown that higher concentrations may not increase tumor conspicuity.