Ionic and non-ionic contrast media used for contrast-enhanced computed tomography in experimental pancreatitis.

Contrast enhancement of the pancreas was studied in pigs using dynamic computed tomography in experimental oedematous and haemorrhagic/necrotizing pancreatitis during the first two minutes after injection of an intravenous bolus of non-ionic contrast medium (iohexol). The prospects of separating the two forms of the disease, known to be possible with ionic contrast media, were tested with a non-ionic contrast medium. In the oedematous form, contrast enhancement after 5 hours of the disease was significantly higher than in the haemorrhagic/necrotizing form. Contrast enhancement after 30 hours of disease tended to vary with the severity of the disease, showing that the course of oedematous pancreatitis is dynamic. Intermediate forms occur and follow-up studies are needed during the disease. A non-ionic contrast medium proved as good for separating the two forms of the disease in the early phase as were ionic contrast media. In severely ill patients, non-ionic contrast media should therefore be used.