Optimal injection technique for intravenous digital subtraction angiography. Animal and clinical studies of right atrial injection using small volumes (25 ml) at a high rate (35 ml/sec).

Small-volume right atrial injections of contrast material (25 ml) delivered at a high rate (30-35 ml) were routinely performed for digital subtraction angiography in 232 studies (698 injections). Excellent opacification of the aorta and peripheral arteries was consistently obtained. Superior opacification following right atrial injections compared with peripheral or superior vena cava boluses was confirmed in animal experiments.