[Pitfalls when using a contrast media injector in MRI].

PURPOSE

Using a power injector to applicate Gd-DTPA we found a contrast enhancement of the pyelo-caliceal system even in the native studies, and hence we analysed pitfalls when using power injectors in MRI.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We used a power injector Spectris (MedRad, Maastricht, Netherlands). In vitro artifacts were achieved by the mixture of contrast media and saline solution. We substituted contrast media by red water, NaCl by clear water.

RESULTS

Using power injectors in MRI, some pitfalls must be avoided, which can render investigations useless, especially dynamic contrast-enhanced investigations.

CONCLUSION

In our study we showed an easy way to overcome some pitfalls and use a power injector in MRI in a diagnostically helpful way. The simple use of valves inhibits the mixture of contrast media and saline solution.