Low Dose Intravenous Urography: Results and Technique Modifications

Abstract

100 consecutive patients routinely referred for intravenous urography were examined using low doses of the low osmolar contrast medium Iohexol (Omnipaque 350mgl/ml). Their dosage schedule was based on the physiological parameters of age, sex, body weight and renal function. Comparison with a control group using standard contrast doses revealed a 42% reduction in contrast could be used, and still produce diagnostic studies. Nephrographic quality was reduced in the low dose group requiring technique modification, in particular a delayed film sequence. Further reductions in contrast use are envisaged in patients over the age of 40 years.