Contrast agents and the radiographic examination of the digestive tract in domestic carnivores

In veterinary medicine, exploratory examinations of the digestive tract are most frequently radiographic procedures involving contrast agents. The materials which produce either a negative radiographic contrast (gas) or a positive contrast (barium ol iodinated agents) are used to provide an evaluation of oesophageal, gastric or intestinal morphology and motility. For a long time now, and in numerous indications, the reference contrast medium has been barium sulfate. Nonetheless, in order to obtain a reliable diagnosis, and be able to handle any possible complications, a thorough knowledge is required of the conditions for the use of this contrast agent, the dosage, concentration, directions Sor use and its association with other gaseous media. The gastrointestinal route may also be employed Sol the administration of the most recently elaborated water-soluble iodinated contrast agents. In certain situations, the special characteristics of these products, which are usually intended Sor urography or myelography applications, offer a choise alternative to barium.