Kontrastmittel
The diagnostic value of many CT examinations can be increased by administering a contrast agent containing iodine. The reason for this is the difference between contrast-agent uptake by healthy and diseased body tissue. In this way, pathological organ changes are more precisely detected.
After providing vascular access via a venous cannula (Venflon) in the region of the lower arm or hand, a contrast medium is administered by power injection.
Most people tolerate modern contrast agents well; some notice a feeling of warmth in the body, which however rapidly diminishes.
In rare instances, there are hypersensitivity reactions accompanied by nausea, vomiting, itching, or skin rashes. In extremely rare cases, there are serious reactions such as shock and organ failure.
You will be in contact with our specialist personnel via intercom and camera – if you feel unwell or feel pain in the region of the venous cannula, contrast-agent injection can be immediately interrupted.
For examinations in the abdominal region, you will be given half a liter of a contrast medium containing barium – diluted in water – which must be drunk approximately one hour before the examination starts.
NB
Before the examination starts, and before administration of an intravenous contrast agent, please inform us of a possible or existing pregnancy.
Have you tolerated contrast-agents well in the past, or were there side-effects associated with an allergy?
Please inform us if you have any of the following diseases:
- Kidney disease with impaired renal function
Kidney malfunction can be detected by means of a specific blood-test result (serum creatinine). Before intravenous contrast-agent administration, your family doctor must determine the current creatinine value. Please bring the latest laboratory results to your examination appointment.
- Thyroid disease, particularly in connection with hyperfunction (hyperthyroidism)
- If you are diabetic and take antidiabetic drugs containing metformin, please inform us when you make an appointment and temporarily stop taking the medication one day before the examination.
Please bring any previous CT or MRT scans with you!
Before an examination involving the administration of an intravenous contrast agent, you will be asked to fill out a special questionnaire and a declaration of consent. You can print out and complete the questionnaire at home, or do so in the Diagnosezentrum.
http://www.oerg.at/tl_files/uploads/Aufklaerungsblaetter/RKM-Aufklaerung.pdf
Should you have any other questions, do not hesitate to contact us at any time.