Influence of two non-ionic radiographic contrast media with different osmolalities on coagulation in invasive cardiology. A prospective, randomised comparative study.

To investigate the influence of two non-ionic radiographic contrast media with different osmolality on thrombocytic function and the plasmatic coagulation system. The study was carried out as a randomised, prospective, comparative study with two contrast media in a heart catheter laboratory. Activating influences on platelet aggregation, procoagulatory or profibrinolytic functions or injury to the endothelium could be ruled out. Apparently, also differences in substance properties, such as the media's ionic character or osmolality had no demonstrable influence on the interaction with haemostatis and blood vessels. An adjuvant, antithrombotic therapy was carried out, which consisted of platelet aggregation inhibitors and heparins. Our findings agree with the results of recent clinical trials, which demonstrated no relevant disadvantage of non-ionic contrast media as regards thrombotic complications.