lec 4- contrast media 1 Flashcards
outline the steps to preparing the patient for a contrast procedure
- Patient pre-admission preparation
- Admission pre-preparation procedures
- The procedure
- Immediate post procedural care
- Post discharge care
why use contrast
- Contrast Media changes the attenuation of x-rays of a particular organ with respect to the surrounding tissues/organs.
- The contrast media increases the overall “contrast” of the x-ray image via attenuation properties
define contras medium/media
generic name given to substances that are administered to enhance the contrast of an x-ray via attenuation
define positive contrast
usually a high atomic number (e.g. iodine, barium), thereby absorbing a greater amount of x-Ry photons causing a more radiopaque image (increased attenuation)
define negative contrast
usually a low atomic number (e.g. H2O, air), thereby creating a radiolucent image, by not absorbing x-ray photons as much as surrounding tissues (lower attenuation)
define contrast pattern
each contrast media type (after administration) has a ‘normal’ appearance. Deviation from this helps in diagnosis of disease. Consequence: if you don’t mix the contrast well enough it may mimic a disease.
what are 3 types of contrast used and what examinations are they used for
Barium: GIT
Iodinated: vascular
Gastrografin: limited GIT studies for post-surgery
in a solution what is barium and when is it used
In Solution, barium is white crystalline substance that is in suspension in H2O It is odourless and opaque in appearance
- Extremely toxic in blood
- Barium is used in the GIT
- The osmolarity drops and makes it non-toxic for the GIT
how is barium excreted
The body uses large quantities of water available in the body to help excrete the barium
what happens if the patient doesn’t drink enough water after barium administration and what happens if they consume dehydrating substances
The barium comes out of suspension and sets inside the patients colon.
The consumption of dehydrating substances (e.g. alcohol or caffeine related drinks) can cause complications and hinder the body from eliminating the Barium. If the patient is dehydrated after the procedure, Barium can set and cause a Bowel obstruction.
what examinations use barium
Barium Enema
Small bowel Series
Barium swallow
Barium Meal
what is the preparation of barium in the upper GIT
generally fast for 12 hours before the time of examination. Keep hydrated (water/ clear fluids)
what is the preparation of barium in the lower GIT
Generally fast for 12 hours prior to the examination. Keep hydrated (water/ clear fluids).
Usually a cleansing preparation is used as well
list 5 adverse side effects of barium contrast media
Narrowing of the oesophagus (spasm): Shatzki’s Ring Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) Spasm of GIT (usually localised) Hiatal hernia Aspiration pneumonia Granuloma formations (inflammation) Perforation Severe Cramping Diarrhoea Barium Impaction (constipation) Anaphylaxis: sweating/rash/tachycardia Bloating
What procedure is iodinated contrast media used for
vascular procedures