Prevention of Contrast Media–Associated Nephropathy  
 
Randomized Comparison of 2 Hydration Regimens in 1620 Patients Undergoing Coronary Angioplasty 
 
Author Information  Christian Mueller, MD; Gerd Buerkle, MD; Heinz J. Buettner, MD; Jens Petersen, MD; André P. Perruchoud, MD; Urs Eriksson, MD, PhD; Stephan Marsch, MD, PhD; Helmut Roskamm, MD

Background  The administration of radiographic contrast agents remains an important cause of acute renal failure. The optimal infusion for hydration has not been evaluated.

Objective  To compare the incidence of contrast media–associated nephrotoxicity with isotonic or half-isotonic hydration.

Design  Prospective, randomized, controlled, open-label study.

Methods  Patients scheduled for elective or emergency coronary angioplasty were randomly assigned to receive isotonic (0.9% saline) or half-isotonic (0.45% sodium chloride plus 5% glucose) hydration beginning the morning of the procedure for elective interventions and immediately before emergency interventions. An increase in serum creatinine of at least 0.5 mg/dL (44 µmol/L) within 48 hours was defined as contrast media–associated nephrotoxicity. Secondary end points were cardiac and peripheral vascular complications.

Results  A total of 1620 patients were assigned to receive isotonic (n = 809) or half-isotonic (n = 811) hydration. Primary end point analysis was possible in 1383 patients. Baseline characteristics were well matched. Contrast media–associated nephropathy was significantly reduced with isotonic (0.7%, 95% confidence interval, 0.1%-1.4%) vs half-isotonic (2.0%, 95% confidence interval, 1.0%-3.1%) hydration (P = .04). Three predefined subgroups benefited in particular from isotonic hydration: women, persons with diabetes, and patients receiving 250 mL or more of contrast. The incidence of cardiac (isotonic, 5.3% vs half-isotonic, 6.4%; P = .59) and peripheral vascular (isotonic, 1.6% vs half-isotonic, 1.5%, P = .93) complications was similar between the 2 hydration groups.

Conclusion  Isotonic hydration is superior to half-isotonic hydration in the prevention of contrast media–associated nephropathy.

Arch Intern Med. 2002;162:329-336

 

 

Edward E. Rylander, M.D.

Diplomat American Board of Family Practice.

Diplomat American Board of Palliative Medicine.