Comparison between iodamide and iothalamate in intravenous urography

A number of iodinated contrast media such as Iothalamate, whose excretion depends on glomerular filtration are well established for use in intravenous urography. Iodamide, a relatively new iodinated contrast medium, is thought to be actively secreted by the tubules in addition to glomerular filtration. We set out to compare the nephrogram and pyelogram using these two types of contrast medium, injecting each either slowly or rapidly. Only patients with normal plasma urea and creatinine concentrations were included in the assessment. The results, although inconclusive, suggest that the quality of the nephrogram and pyelogram is better with Iodamide than with Iothalamate.