Comparison of 2 CT Contrast Media Injection Systems: Visual Air Identification and Injector Face Cleaning.

PURPOSE

To compare the MEDRAD Stellant and MEDRAD Stellant FLEX computed tomography contrast media injection systems in terms of radiologic technologists' ability to visually identify air in the syringes at various distances and under different lighting conditions, as well as the ease of cleaning contrast media spills on the injector faces.

METHODS

Ten experienced radiologic technologists performed 104 tests (52 per injector) in normal light and in ambient light conditions. The tests were randomized for the radiologic technologists' distance from the injector at 2 ft (61 cm), 8 ft (244 cm), and 16 ft (488 cm). In addition, the authors tested the cleaning efficiency of the Stellant injector face with raised buttons and the Stellant FLEX injector face with buttons on a flush surface by applying a mixture of contrast media and invisible ultraviolet ink. Radiologic technologists followed 2 cleaning protocols: a quick clean (5 seconds) and a full clean (1 minute). Residual contrast mixture was measured.

RESULTS

The Stellant FLEX injector had an overall higher rate of correct air identification than did the Stellant injector, 97.5% vs 86.9%, respectively ( < .001), with improvement seen at greater distances. The rates for the Stellant FLEX injector remained stable for all distances (99.4%-93.9%; < .003). A similar result was seen with ambient lighting: The visibility of air in the Stellant FLEX injector remained stable ( < .001). During cleaning, the Stellant FLEX injector required less time to reach a greater level of cleanliness and showed less contrast mixture residue, especially after the quick clean procedure (16% and 59%, respectively; < .001).

DISCUSSION

Injector manufacturers provide various technologies to assist radiologic technologists in visualizing the presence of air in a syringe. The Stellant injector features clear syringes with FluiDots as an air identification technology. The Stellant FLEX injector incorporates an added feature called . This study's results are highly clinically relevant because unintentional iatrogenic air injection occurs in clinical practice and can, in rare cases, severely harm patients.

CONCLUSION

Radiologic technologists showed an improved ability to identify air in the syringes in the Stellant FLEX system. In addition, radiologic technologists were confident about their identification, specifically at greater distances and in ambient lighting conditions. The Stellant FLEX injector face also enabled quicker and more efficient cleaning.