Positive contrast cerebral ventriculography using water-soluble media. Clinical evaluation of 102 procedures using methyglucamine iothalamate 60 per cent.

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Abstract
One hundred two ventri-culograms were performed on 90 patients. The water-soluble contrast media Methylglucamine iothalamate 60 percent (NMG loth) was used in the procedures. Radiographic vsualization of the ventricles was more complete and alteration of intracranial dynamics less than when using either air or ethyliodophenylundecylate. Intraventricular injection of excessive quantities of this media, however, produces toxicity which may result in convulsions. Suggested precautions are: premedication with small amounts of barbiturate and atropine; 1-3 ml of air should be injected into the lateral ventricle and radiographs taken to check position of needle; 1 1/2-3 ml of contrast medium diluted to 10 ml with ventricular fluid is ample to fill a normal ventricular system and no more than 6 ml of undiluted contrast medium should be injected into a dilated ventricular system; and tumor masses involving the 3rd ventricle, 4th ventricle and aqueduct of Sylvian can be visualized best by injecting contrast medium with the needle tip near the foramen of Munro. Since almost complete and immediate filling of the entire ventricular system is accomplished without moving the head, this technique is ideal for stereotactic surgery. No evidence of iodine sensitivity was observed in this study but this must be considered when using an iodinated positive contrast medium such as NMG loth for ventriculography.