[Initial experiences with CO2 as a gaseous contrast medium in digital subtraction angiography].

Electronic contrast enhancement allows the use of CO2 as a contrast material for studying the vascular system with DSA. Its use, safety and the information provided were studied in 40 patients and in 5 animal experiments and the results were compared with iodine-containing contrast media. The available results indicate that CO2 is a safe negative contrast medium for peripheral arteriography and that it provides angiograms with a picture quality comparable to those of iodinated contrast media in the extremities. The method can therefore be used to advantage in patients with allergies to the iodinated contrast media and in patients with renal failure.