About gadolinium-based Contrast

Gadolinium-based contrast is commonly used during Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) scans to highlight specific body regions or areas of your vascular system. For many MRI or MRA examinations it can provide additional valuable information.

OAI has closely monitored new findings regarding the disease known as Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis or Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NSF/NFD), which may occur in rare instances in patients with moderate to end-stage kidney disease after they have had a MRI or MRA scan with a gadolinium-based contrast agent.

To ensure the highest quality service and care, OAI uses MultiHance as our contrast agent of choice. MultiHance is considered one of the safest gadolinium-based contrast agents available. In addition, per contrast studies, MultiHance provides significantly better enhancement and diagnostic information than other gadolinum-based contrast agents.

To maximize your patient's safety OAI has adopted the screening guidelines recommended by the American College of Radiology (ACR) regarding administration of gadolinium-based contrast during an MRI or MRA exam.

Per ACR recommendations, every patient requiring contrast will be asked if they have any of the following conditions:

• Kidney problems/renal disease
• Hepatic disease/liver transplant/pending liver transplant
• On prescription medication for hypertension
• On prescription medication for diabetes
• Age 60 or older
  

If any of the above risk factors apply, OAI will request a blood test to determine your patient's BUN/Creatinine level and estimated GFR. The lab results must be within the last forty-five (45) days.

If your patient's GFR is lower than 60, the radiologist will review their medical history, evaluate the risks and benefits of contrast administration, and discuss the situation with you, the ordering provider if deemed necessary. OAI staff will explain the radiologist’s decision at the time of your patient's appointment.

As an added service OAI is now licensed to use the iSTAT® blood analysis device. If it is necessary to complete a blood test at the time of your patient's appointment, OAI can provide a quick, economical, lab quality test in just minutes.

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