Esophageal perforation: comparison of use of aqueous and barium-containing contrast media.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

To assess the need for follow-up esophagography with barium-containing contrast medium after examination with a water-soluble contrast medium in the detection of esophageal perforation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Sixty-seven patients suspected of having esophageal perforation were examined prospectively with use of an aqueous contrast medium during a 1-year period. The examinations were performed with a digital fluoroscopy unit. Eighteen patients without proved extravasation at esophagography performed with aqueous contrast medium and without other contraindications underwent esophagography with barium-containing contrast medium.

RESULTS:

In four of 18 patients (22%) with unremarkable findings at esophagography performed with a water-soluble contrast medium, a perforation was detected subsequently with use of a barium-containing contrast medium. No complications related to barium extravasation occurred.

CONCLUSION:

Patients suspected of having esophageal perforation and who have unremarkable findings at esophagography with water-soluble contrast media need to undergo follow-up esophagography with a barium-containing contrast medium. The use of a digital fluoroscopy unit does not obviate the follow-up examination.

• Authors: A Buecker, B B Wein, J M Neuerburg, R W Guenther
• Journal: Radiology (Radiology) Vol. 202 Issue 3 Pg. 683-6 (Mar 1997) ISSN: 0033-8419 [Print] United States
• PMID: 9051016 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Contrast Media
• Iothalamic Acid
• Barium Sulfate
• ioxitalamic acid
• Iopamidol

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Barium Sulfate
• Contrast Media
• Esophageal Perforation (diagnostic imaging)
• Esophagus (diagnostic imaging)
• Female
• Fluoroscopy
• Humans
• Iopamidol
• Iothalamic Acid (analogs & derivatives)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Prospective Studies
• Radiographic Image Enhancement
• Solubility