Name of the Procedure:

Low Osmolar Contrast Material Injection
Common name(s): Contrast dye injection, Low osmolar contrast dye
Technical/Medical Term: Low osmolar contrast material, 100-199 mg/ml iodine concentration (Q9965)

Summary

The procedure involves the injection of a low-osmolarity iodine-based contrast material into the body to enhance imaging quality for diagnostic tests such as CT scans, X-rays, or MRIs. This helps to provide clearer images of internal organs and structures for accurate diagnosis.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Helps diagnose conditions like cancers, blockages, vascular diseases, infections, and skeletal disorders.
• Goals: To provide clear and detailed images of body structures, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Indications

• Symptoms like unexplained pain, swelling, or abnormal blood test results.
• Conditions like suspected tumors, vascular diseases, kidney stones, or spine injuries.
• Patients needing detailed imaging for accurate diagnosis.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Fasting for 4-6 hours prior to the procedure may be necessary.
• Medication Adjustments: Certain medications might need to be paused.
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests to assess kidney function are often required.

Procedure Description

1. Step-by-Step:
   • Patient is positioned on the imaging table.
   • The contrast material is administered intravenously.
   • Imaging equipment captures detailed images.
   • Monitoring of patient’s response to contrast material ensures safety.
2. Tools/Equipment: Injection needle/catheter, imaging equipment (CT/X-ray/MRI machines).
3. Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically not required; local anesthesia may be used for the injection site.

Duration

The procedure itself often takes about 10-30 minutes, but imaging may take longer depending on the type.

Setting

Commonly performed in hospital radiology departments, outpatient clinics, or specialized imaging centers.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Radiology technician
• Nursing staff
• Possibly a physician for monitoring

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Mild allergic reactions, nausea.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, kidney function impact.
• Management: Immediate medical attention for any adverse reactions, pre-screening to assess allergy risk.

Benefits

• Provides high-quality, detailed images essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Helps detect abnormalities that may not be visible with standard imaging techniques.
• Benefits often realized immediately as images are reviewed.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Hydration to help flush out the contrast material.
• Recovery Time: Usually minimal, most patients resume normal activities within a few hours.
• Follow-ups: As required based on imaging results.

Alternatives

• Other imaging procedures like ultrasound or non-contrast MRI.
• Pros & Cons: Alternatives may be less detailed or specific depending on the diagnostic requirement. Contrast-enhanced images often provide better diagnostic information.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: May feel a slight pinprick from the needle and a warm sensation when the contrast material is injected.
• After the Procedure: Usually comfortable with rare instances of mild discomfort which is manageable with prescribed medications.