Saline Chasing Technique with Dual-Syringe Injector Systems for Multi-Detector Row Computed Tomographic Angiography: Rationale, Indications, and Protocols

Auler, Mark A.; Heagy, Terry; Aganovic, Lejla; Brothers, Robin; Costello, Philip; Schoepf, U. Joseph

doi:10.1067/j.cpradiol.2005.10.001

« Previous Next »Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
Volume 35, Issue 1 , Pages 1-11, January 2006

Saline Chasing Technique with Dual-Syringe Injector Systems for Multi-Detector Row Computed Tomographic Angiography: Rationale, Indications, and Protocols

Mark A. Auler, MD
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
Terry Heagy, RT
- Medrad Inc., Pittsburgh, PA.
- T.H. is an employee of Medrad Inc., Pittsburgh, PA. U.J.S. received a research grant provided by Medrad.
Lejla Aganovic, MD
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
Robin Brothers, RT
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
Philip Costello, MD
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
U. Joseph Schoepf, MD
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Reprint requests: U. Joseph Schoepf, MD, Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, 169 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29425.

Computed tomography (CT) technology has significantly changed over the last two decades. The advent of multi-detector row CT (MDCT) has resulted in rapid acquisition times and improved z-axis resolution that paved the way for CT angiography. With MDCT technology, CT angiography has become more dependent upon optimal vessel opacification and, consequently, contrast administration protocols have had to evolve. We examine the use of intravenous contrast from a historical perspective and discuss the latest methodologies, such as saline chasing techniques, that optimize the contrast bolus with CT angiography.