Experimental myocardial ischemia II: radiographic contrast media toxicity.

The comparative effects of meglumine sodium diatrizoate (MSD), sodium meglumine calcium metrizoate (SMCM), and metrizamide (M) were studied in an isolated canine heart preparation. The parameters observed were coronary blood flow (CBF), myocardial contractile force (MCF), positive and negative dF/dt, and perfusion pressure during normal and ischemic perfusion conditions. MSD had an initial negative inotropic effect but baseline MCF returned in 1 min during normal perfusion and 2 min under ischemic conditions. SMCM and M had only a positive inotropic effect under normal perfusion. However, during ischemia, the positive effect of SMCM was followed by a decrease in contractile force. M showed only a positive effect on force during ischemia. Our results indicate that calcium additive may increase the risk of coronary arteriography in patients with severe coronary artery disease.