Administration of contrast medium in spiral CT: Results of a consensus conference

The rapidity of spiral (helical-) computed tomography requires new protocols for i.v. contrast media administration. Flow rate, volume and delay are discussed controversially in the Literature. Hence, a consensus meeting was initiated. In this meeting, problem related questions were designed, discussed and answered using a digital vote system. Spiral-CT-technology was found to be the ideal examination technique for thorax, liver, pancreas, kidney and the retroperitoneal space with an overall agreement between 89 and 97 %. The exclusive use of nonionic contrast media and power injectors was recommended by 100 % of the participants. More than 90 % of the contributors did not accept native scans only for examinations of the neck, thorax, liver, pancreas, kidney and the retroperitoneal space. Regarding volume, flow rate, delay and physical CT-parameters the agreement laid between 50 and 100 %. The meeting concluded that randomised controlled studies should be performed to evaluate detailed contrast media protocols for helical CT.