Carbon dioxide digital subtraction angiography

Carbon dioxide (CO2) digital subtraction angiography offers the possibility for diagnostic and interventional angiographic procedures in high risk pat ients for ionidated contrast material. As a gaseous contrast agent its phys icochemical properties have special requirements concerning the radiologist s knowledge, the Xray equipment, the injector and the catheters. This artic le reviews the current literature concerning the history physics and physio logy, indications and contraindications, clinical use, adverse effects and possible complications of carbon dioxide digital subtraction angiography.