Fourteen pigs with an average weight of 17 kg were used in this study.
Under general anesthesia and magnification 1-3 ccm/kg of carbon dioxide
were administered in the lymph vessels of the front and rear legs.
Imaging of the peripheral lymph vessels, lymph nodes and the thoracic
duct was achieved with digital subtraction angiography. The quality of
lymphangiography was satisfactory and comparable with that of the
standard non-ionic contrast agent. It is anticipated that further
technical evolution will permit the application of CO2/DSA
lymphangiography to man. Carbon dioxide is non-nephrotoxic and is
non-allergic; it is inexpensive, can be administered in unlimited
quantity and is quickly eliminated via the pulmonary system