Peripheral hemodynamic effects of intraventricular and intracoronary contrast media in man.

The effects of intraventricular and intracoronary contrast media on the peripheral arterial and venous beds were directly measured with forearm plethysmography. Standard dose intraventricular radiographic contrast produces a potent peripheral arterial vasodilator effect accompanied by a hypotensive and tachycardic response, followed by peripheral venoconstriction, suggesting that the net hemodynamic response is mediated peripherally. Coronary arteriography is associated with a differing pattern of response, suggesting that the most important hemodynamic effects are mediated via myocardial depression with secondary peripheral vascular responses. Hemodynamic changes occur earlier than those following ventriculography and reflect peripheral arterial and venous constriction. Dose and osmolarity of the contrast are important determinants as well as the site of administration.