USE OF IOHEXOL AS A GASTROINTESTINAL CONTRAST-MEDIUM IN THE DOG

Iohexol was administered orally in five dogs. The dose, gastrointestinal (GI) transit time, appearance of mucosal patterns and side effects were studied. Three different doses (525, 700, 875 mgI/kg) were used in each dog at 1-week intervals. GI transit time was rapid. In each dose, gastric emptying commenced immediately after administration of the contrast medium, and was completed within 30-60 min with doses of 525-700 mgI/kg and 90-120 min with 875 mgI/kg. Large intestinal filling was observed within 60-90 min. In the majority of studies, the mucosal border appeared as a thin homogeneous halo of lucency surrounding the more opaque bowel lumen contents. The contrast intensity was not adequate with the lowest dose. The image quality did not deteriorate along the GI tract. No adverse reactions were found. Iohexol is an alternative GI contrast medium in the dog when contrast media are contraindicated.