Powdered Tantalum

Abstract

Roentgenographic outlining of airways is a valuable diagnostic tool, but the usual contrast mediums have a number of disadvantages: they are not very radiopaque, so that the large volume of material introduced into airways interferes with pulmonary function; they may be toxic; they do not provide details of airway mucosa; and they are in liquid form and so do not adhere firmly to the airway wall. Therefore, we used a new method of opacifying airways by outlining them with powdered tantalum in 26 patients with serious lung disease. The small volume of contrast material required did not interfere with pulmonary function. Fine mucosal detail was obtained, and the contrast material was not dislodged by respiratory maneuvers. Microscopical studies of lung tissue in eight patients showed no inflammatory reaction. The excellence of powdered tantalum as a contrast material is explained by its inertness, radiopacity and adherence to airway mucosa.