[Current CO 2 angiography].

BACKGROUND: Carbon dioxide (CO2 ) is a very good and validated alternative to iodine-containing contrast media in diagnostic and interventional angiography. Nevertheless, its routinely use is still limited to specialized centers.

OBJECTIVE: The presentation of the current role and limitations of CO2 in diagnostic and interventional angiography (venous and arterial).

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A comprehensive review of the literature regarding CO2 angiography (physical features, indications, contraindications, applications) was carried out.

RESULTS: The results show that CO2 can be used as a reliable alternative for diagnostic angiography and to support interventions in many arterial and venous vascular territories. An exception is the intra-arterial use of CO2 above the diaphragm due to the risk of severe myocardial and cerebral complications, which represents the most important contraindication. Moreover, due to its very low viscosity, CO2 is more effective than iodine-containing contrast media in detecting bleeding arising from small vessels.

CONCLUSION: The CO2 angiography is a safe and effective technique and can be used as valid alternative. In several clinical cases it even offers some advantages compared to iodine-containing contrast media.