2009 Volume 62 Issue 11 Pages 875-881
The optimal iotroxate meglumine dose in dogs for CT imaging by drip infusion cholangiography was examined against changes in CT values in the biliary duct system and apparent gallbladder volume over time and the visualization grade of the biliary duct system in three-dimensional CT (3D-CT) images, to investigate the most useful dose of the contrast medium and the optimum timing of imaging following administration. The contrast medium was intravenously administered in doses of 1 ml/kg (in two cases), 1.5 ml/kg (in five cases), 2 ml/kg (in five cases) or 2.5 ml/kg (in one case) for 10 minutes, and CT imaging was performed before and immediately after administration and repeated thereafter at 10-minute intervals. The results indicated that 1ml/kg of the contrast medium was insufficient to visualize the biliary duct system. The increase in CT values was limited under a 2 ml/kg dose compared to that under a 1.5 ml/kg dose. Visualization of the biliary duct system in 3D-CT imaging was, however, clearer under a 2 ml/kg dose. The biliary duct system was most properly visualized when imaging was performed 20 to 40 minutes after completing administration of the contrast medium. It was therefore considered that DIC-CT imaging of healthy dogs under anesthesia would properly be performed 20 to 40 minutes after completion of administration if 2 ml/kg was applied for 10 minutes.
