Abstract
Our center established two measures for preventing barium sulfate aspiration. We investigated the correlation between the viscosity and the aspiration frequency of barium sulfate, and sex age distribution in males of 80 years or older showing frequent aspiration. First, we asked subjects whether they had previously experienced aspiration before gastric cancer screening to identify high-risk screenees. For those in the high-risk group, the contrast media was served in a paper cup. In addition, we revised the patient instructions sheet to add the following sentences: “Please drink the solution slowly.” For the second measure, high-viscosity (280 mPa·s), high-density barium sulfate 180W/V% sol preparation was used for the high-risk group. After the institution of these measures, the frequency of barium sulfate aspiration was markedly reduced. Thus, we conclude that the measures are useful for preventing contrast media aspiration.
