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CC BY 4.0 · Rofo 2024; 196(08): 819-826
DOI: 10.1055/a-2246-6697
Review

Thoughts on sustainability in the use of iodinated contrast media in CT: a practice-oriented review based on the example of a hospital and a private practice

Article in several languages: English | deutsch
Fabian Rengier 
1   Pharmaceuticals Medizin, Radiology, Bayer Vital GmbH, Leverkusen, Germany
2   Clinic for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany
,
Mike Notohamiprodjo
3   Radiological and Nuclear Medicine Partnership Munich (PR 1432), DIE RADIOLOGIE, Sonnenstraße 17, 80331 München, Germany
,
Marc-André Weber 
4   Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Pediatric Radiology and Neuroradiology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
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Abstract

Background

Iodinated contrast media (CM) have become indispensable in computed tomography (CT), angiography, and cardiac cathlab as well as in other X-ray-based procedures, for example in urology. In this context, iodinated CM are released into the environment in particular via patient excretions along with other trace substances. At the same time, the use of iodinated CM also involves CM leftovers as well as packaging and consumables.

Method

In order to reduce the discharge of iodinated CM into the environment and to promote efficient use of resources, awareness of the sustainable and responsible use of iodinated CM and associated consumables is essential. A number of effective measures can contribute to this in the short, medium, and long term. Based on the literature and quantitative data from our own routine, aspects of sustainability when dealing with CM in computed tomography are discussed in this review using the example of a hospital and a private practice.

Conclusion

When planning and performing contrast-enhanced CT examinations, personalized CM protocols can make CM use more efficient. Some CM manufacturers offer recycling programs for CM leftovers. The collection of CM excretions after CM injections using urine bags might have a major impact on reducing the discharge of iodinated CM into the environment. In addition, responsible use of consumables and packaging material, in particular the use of multi-patient systems, can make a valuable contribution to waste avoidance and resource conservation. All of these measures can ultimately be fully effective in terms of protecting the environment and resources if they can be implemented on a broad basis. For this purpose, an even greater focus on the topic of sustainability among all parties involved is desirable.

Key Points

  • Sustainable and responsible use of iodinated contrast media is desirable.

  • Various measures can be taken today to reduce the environmental impact and conserve resources.

  • CM use can be made more efficient by optimizing contrast-enhanced CT examinations.

  • Recycling programs for CM leftovers enable their further use.

  • Urine bags might have a major impact on reducing the environmental impact.

Citation Format

  • Rengier F, Notohamiprodjo M, Weber MA et al. Thoughts on sustainability in the use of iodinated contrast media in CT: a practice-oriented reviewbased on the example of a hospital and a private practice. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2024; 196: 819 – 826

Keywords

sustainability - CT - contrast agents


Publication History

Received: 26 July 2023

Accepted: 13 November 2023

Article published online:
26 February 2024

© 2024. The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, permitting unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction so long as the original work is properly cited. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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