The synthesis and evaluation of novel cholegraphic media.

The development of modern cholegraphic media has taken place over the last half century. The progress made has been notable. The agents presently available allow the physician to visualize the gall bladder and the biliary tree and to consequently diagnose many pathological conditions. However, the use of cholegraphic media, especially those administered intravenously, is not without hazard. Apart from relatively mild side effects such as nausea and diarrhoea, circulatory collapse and acute renal failure have been noted as a consequence of the use of these agents. The widespread use of these compounds as diagnostic agents makes even infrequent fatalities a matter of concern