Selective Coronary Angiography Using a Power Injector

Selective coronary angiography plays a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with coronary artery disease. Image quality may significantly affect interpretation of coronary angiograms (1 -3). Poor quality examinations may result in incorrect patient management and expose the patient to considerable risk (4). One of the most important factors contributing to high-quality images is dense, uniform opacifi- cation of the coronary arteries with contrast medium. We have noted in our own cases, and in cases from other institutions, considerable variability in coronary artery opaci- fication, not only from person to person, but also with each injection. In an attempt to obtain optimal opacification, we have recently begun to use a standard angiographic power injector for coronary artery injections. This has resulted in improved demonstration of the arteries, especially the left coronary artery, which commonly requires higher injection rates and volumes.