Clinical Characteristics of Most Frequent Use of Iodinated Contrast Media for CT

Given the integral role of CT in patient care, the current global contrast media shortage creates profound and manifold patient care implications. We used a large insurance dataset to highlight examinations (abdominopelvic and chest CT), delivery settings (emergency department and outpatient hospital), and clinical indications (acute abdominopelvic and chest disease and cancer surveillance) for which contrast-enhanced CT is most commonly used. Such information may help inform emerging national guidelines and institutional policies.

Automated summary

Given the impact of the global contrast media shortage on patient care, this study analyzed a large insurance dataset to identify the commonly used examinations, delivery settings, and clinical indications for contrast-enhanced CT. The findings can inform the development of national guidelines and institutional policies.