Leg Phlebography: The Incidence, Nature and Modification of Undesirable Side Effects

Abstract

A prospective study was performed to elucidate the side effects of contrast medium phlebography for the diagnosis of deep vein thrombophlebitis (DVTP). The phlebograms were obtained with the patient in a semi-erect position, with an average dose of 125 ml of contrast medium infused continuously over 7–12 min. 60, or the same agent diluted to three-quarter strength, was used. The major side effects were pain during the study and a symptom complex resembling DVTP starting 12–36 hours after the study. Both were more common with the standard contrast medium (pain: 59.0% vs. 30.0%; delayed reaction: 24.0% vs. 7.5%), although the percentage of positive studies was unchanged (about 35.0%). Side effects were more frequent and severe than previously thought, but their incidence can readily be lowered.