Absence of postmyelographic adverse effects and high radiographic resolution of iotrolan used in the cervical myelography for the clinically normal cat: an open-placebo controlled study.

Iotrolan solution at 300 mgI/ml (Isovist 300, Schering AG), was injected into the cerebromedullary cistern in 8 cats (Isovist group), at a volume of 0.5 ml/Kg BW and over one minute. In 3 cats (control group), normal saline was also injected at a same volume and speed. During the subarachnoid injection and at 1, 5 and 10 min thereafter all the cats were being monitored for evidence of respiratory arrest, bradycardia or changes in the arterial blood pressure. The cats were also checked for postmyelographic adverse effects for at least 3 h after their complete recovery from anaesthesia. Postmyelographic neurologic examination was done for 3 consecutive days and the myelographic quality of the films taken at 5 and 15 min postinjection was evaluated. No significant differences were detected between the Isovist and the control groups for all the variables evaluated immediately before, during and up to 3 days after the injection. No actual post-myelographic adverse effects were seen in the animals of both groups. At 15 and 30 min postinjection the opacity, the distention of the subarachnoid space and the detail of all the myelograms obtained were assessed as highly diagnostic.