Hemodynamic effect of iopromide in pancreas-duodenum transplanted rats

Abstract

Background: Radiological contrast media (CM) have been suggested to be able to impair pancreatic microcirculation, especially in acute pancreatitis. Purpose: To evaluate the effects of the low-osmolar CM iopromide on total pancreatic and especially islet blood perfusion after whole pancreas transplantation. Material and Methods: Rats receiving a pancreas-duodenum transplantation 2 days earlier, i.e., with graft pancreatitis, were injected with iopromide. Blood perfusion measurements were then made with a microsphere technique. Results: The graft blood perfusion was decreased in control rats when compared to the endogenous pancreas. Administration of iopromide increased both total pancreatic and islet blood perfusion in the grafted pancreas, but not in the endogenous gland. No effects on blood perfusion to either the native or transplanted duodenum were seen after iopromide administration. Conclusion: Iopromide increases the blood perfusion of a whole pancreas transplant 2 days after implantation, i.e., when graft pancreatitis is present. The consequences of this CM-induced hyperperfusion for graft pancreatic function remain to be established.