Changes in the left ventricular function after application of contrast media.

The authors studied at repeated ventriculographic examinations the changes in the left ventricular function after application of routinely used ionic contrast medium and of newer nonionic medium. They demonstrated that ionic medium does not significantly change the left ventricular volume and ejection fraction, but influences the left ventricular diastolic function. Nonionic contrast material does not significantly change the left ventricular function. The mechanism of side-effects of contrast agents and possible indications for the application of nonionic contrast media are discussed.