Comparison of Dog Renal Artery Imaging with Multi-slice CT Using Different Doses Contrast Media

Purpose To investigate the feasibility of dog renal artery imaging with multi-slice CT (MSCT) using different doses contrast media. Materials and Methods Six dogs were selected and randomly divided into three groups using different doses contrast agent, Iohexol, at 1.62, 2.02, 2.40ml/kg, respectively. Each dosage group was repeated three times with at least 48 hours scan interval. Imaging quality of renal parenchymal, renal artery and visualization of renal artery branches were graded on axial and post-processed views. The CT values of main renal artery and branches as well as signal-to-noise ratio in abdominal aorta were measured. Results There was no statistical difference in renal parenchymal imaging among the three groups (P0.05). Main renal artery and its 3rd-order branches were clearly shown in all three groups without statistical difference in scoring (P 0.05). There was no statistical difference in comparing CT values in different portions in main renal artery and its 3rd-order branches (P 0.05). There was no statistical difference in signal-to-noise ratio within abdominal aorta among all groups (P0.05). Conclusion High quality images can be obtained in imaging dog renal arteries with MSCT using low dose contrast media of 1.62ml/kg.