Physiological effects of contrast media for use in multidetector row computed tomography

In recent years, iodinated contrast media (CM) have been optimized to improve medical imaging and to provide safer, more tolerable compounds for patients. The properties of an ideal CM include general safety, physiological inertness, minimal discomfort during administration, good tolerability if extravasation occurs, no nephrotoxic potential, a predictable bolus form, and provision of optimal arterial, venous, and parenchymal enhancement. This article will review the properties of different types of CM and comparative clinical findings for iodixanol and other CM as they relate to these proposed properties of an ideal CM for multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT).