Powdered diatrizoic acid for radiography of the respiratory tract. Part II. Clinical application.

The diagnostic and clinical value of 41 examinations using insufflation and/or inhalation of powdered diatrizoic acid for tracheobronchography, tracheography, laryngography, nasopharyngography, and sinusography was investigated in 35 patients. Diatrizoic acid was found to be useful when applied by insufflation for demonstration of the nasopharynx, trachea and greater bronchi, especially in patients with airway stenosis and low pulmonary reserve. Double contrast images were obtained with good demonstration of anatomic details and adequate diagnostic value. Visualization of the peripheral bronchi by insufflation was satisfactory only when excessive secretions were not present. The inhalation method was adequate only for visualization of the trachea and main bronchi. The method was found to be safe since diatrizoic acid produced no toxic, allergic or febrile reactions and was given in relatively small amounts without impairment of respiratory function.