Question

During CT examination of the chest, the administration of saline flush after the bolus injection of iodinated IV contrast media helps alleviate artifact from dense contrast in the?

a) Superior vena cava
b) Descending aorta
c) Ascending aorta
d) Inferior vena cava

Answer 1

The administration of saline flush after the injection of iodinated IV contrast media during a CT scan helps reduce artifacts in the superior vena cava by diluting the concentrated contrast agent.

Step-by-step explanation:

During a CT examination of the chest, the administration of saline flush after the bolus injection of iodinated IV contrast media helps to alleviate artifact from dense contrast in the superior vena cava. The superior vena cava drains blood from regions superior to the diaphragm, including the head, neck, upper limbs, and the thoracic region. Upon entering the thorax, the superior vena cava empties into the superior and posterior portions of the right atrium, which is why it's particularly susceptible to contrast-induced artifacts during imaging of this area. The saline flush helps to reduce the concentration of the contrast media in the superior vena cava, resulting in a clearer image and fewer artifacts.