ADMINISTRATION OF CONTRAST-MEDIUM IN SPIR AL CT - RESULTS OF A CONSENSUS CONFERENCE

The rapidity of spiral (helical-) computed tomography requires new pro tocols for i.v. contrast media administration. Flow rate, volume and d elay are discussed controversially in the Literature. Hence, a consens us meeting was initiated. In this meeting, problem related questions w ere designed, discussed and answered using a digital vote system. Spir al-CT-technology was found to be the ideal examination technique for t horax, liver, pancreas, kidney and the retroperitoneal space with an o verall agreement between 89 and 97 %. The exclusive use of nonionic co ntrast media and power injectors was recommended by 100 % of the parti cipants. More than 90 % of the contributors did not accept native scan s only for examinations of the neck, thorax, liver, pancreas, kidney a nd the retroperitoneal space. Regarding volume, flow rate, delay and p hysical CT-parameters the agreement laid between 50 and 100 %. The mee ting concluded that randomised controlled studies should be performed to evaluate detailed contrast media protocols for helical CT.