Low density microspheres and their use as contrast agents for computed tomography and in other applications
AssigneeBristol-Myers Squibb Medical Imaging, Inc.
InventorEVAN C. UNGER
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Abstract
Substantially homogeneous aqueous suspensions of low density microspheres are presented as contrast media for imaging the gastrointestinal tract and other body cavities using computed tomography. In one embodiment, the low density microspheres are gas-filled. With computed tomography, the contrast media serve to change the relative density of certain areas within the gastrointestinal tract and other body cavities, and improve the overall diagnostic efficacy of this imaging method.
Claims34
A method of providing an image of the gastrointestinal region and other body cavities of a patient comprising
- (a) administering to the patient a contrast medium comprising a substantially homogeneous aqueous suspension of low density microspheres, and
- (b) scanning the patient using computed tomography imaging to obtain visible images of the gastrointestinal region or other body cavities.
A method for diagnosing the presence of diseased tissue in the gastrointestinal region or other body cavities of a patient comprising
- (a) a ministering to the patient a contrast medium comprising a substantially homogeneous aqueous suspension of low density microspheres, and
- (b) scanning the patient using computed tomography imaging to obtain visible images of any diseased tissue in the patient.
A kit for computed tomography imaging of the gastrointestinal region or other body cavities comprising low density microspheres, and a thickening or suspending agent.
A contrast medium for computed tomography imaging of the gastrointestestinal region or other body cavities comprising a substantially homogeneous aqueous suspension of low density gas-filled microspheres.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.