Children
The proper personnel and equipment must also be readily available in the event of a problem.
6.Oral and rectal contrast administration: Depending on the reason for the exam/status of the patient, oral contrast may or may not be given to these patients. In general, oral contrast is recommended to opacify the intestinal tract, as unopacified bowel can have the appearance of abdominal fluid or mass effect. Oral, as well as rectal contrast may be required. Usu- ally, a diluted mixture of iodine and water is used as an oral agent. Different substances can be added to this mixture to help reduce the bitter taste and make it more pleasing to the child (apple juice and fruit drink mixes are just a few of these). Barium may of course be used in some cases as well. Negative con- trast agents such as water are becoming more pop- ular for delineation of stomach or bowel wall bor- ders, or when 3D reconstructions are needed. The user needs to be aware of all the contraindications of any of the contrast agents they are using. Please refer to the specific vendor’s recommendations.
7.I.V. contrast administration: In general, 1 – 2 ml per kg of body weight should be applied, however, since the scanning can be completed in just a few sec- onds, please keep in mind that the total injection time should not be longer than the sum of start delay time and the scan time – do not inject contrast after the scanning is finished.
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