Xenon Contrast Enhancement in Computed Body Tomography

Abstract

Xe was investigated as a contrast medium for conventional radiography, and in vitro as a contrast medium for computed tomography. Xe contrast enhancement in vivo for CT [computed tomography] body scanning was evaluated. Healthy subjects [9] had CT scans before and during Xe inhalation. Concentrations of Xe used varied from 10-50%. Consistent useful changes in attenuation from inhaled Xe were found in the lung but not in abdominal organs. Lung attenuation varied linearly with the Xe concentration in the inhaled gas. Inhalation of Xe concentrations greater than 30% resulted in side effects. Further studies are required to demonstrate whether Xe contrast enhancement is of diagnostic value in computed tomography.