Imaging studies: When to use contrast agent?

Article written by Th.S, BS. Ton Nu Tra My, Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital

Contrast is often used in some imaging methods such as X-ray, CT to help improve images, distinguish between normal and pathological images, or help narrow the diagnosis based on characteristics. Contrast absorption properties of normal and pathological tissues. So, in which cases do you need to use contrast agent?

Contrast, also known as contrast or contrast material, is a substance that is introduced into the body before an X-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan (see more in X-rays and microscopic tomography). count). The purpose of contrast is to improve imaging, to help differentiate between normal and pathological images, or to help narrow the diagnosis, to exclusion from other diagnoses because of differences in enhancement properties. contrast of normal tissue and different types of pathological tissues.
Contrast is usually introduced into the body in one of three ways:
Swallowing (by drinking or pumping into the stomach); Inject directly into the rectum; Inject into a vein or artery. After entering the body, the contrast material will be absorbed or eliminated by the body through urine or bowel movements.

There are two main types of contrast agents used in X-ray and computed tomography (CT, CT) are Barium-sulfate and iodine-containing contrast agents.
Barium-sulfate is the most common contrast agent given by mouth or injected into the rectum.
Iodine contrast is often used intravenously.

Barium-sulfate contrast agent is swallowed or taken (orally) in X-ray, computed tomography (CLVT) to evaluate some diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in:
Oropharynx; Stomach; Stomach; Small intestine; Large intestine (colon). In some cases, iodinated contrast agent is substituted for oral barium-sulfate.

Barium-sulfate contrast agent is used in radiography, computed tomography (CT) to evaluate pathology of the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract (colon and rectum).
In some cases, iodinated contrast agent is substituted for barium-sulfate for rectal injection.

Iodine contrast agents are injected intravenously to enhance X-ray and CT images in the evaluation of internal organs, including: heart, lungs, liver, adrenal glands, kidneys, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, uterus and bladder; evaluate the gastrointestinal tract including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine; Examine the arteries and veins of the body including vessels in the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, upper extremities, lower extremities, evaluate the skull, neck, chest, and soft tissues of the body.
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References: ACR Manual on Contrast Media, radiologyinfo.org