Contrast-enhanced micro-computed tomography of articular cartilage morphology with ioversol and iomeprol

Abstract

Non‐ionic, low‐osmolar contrast agents (CAs) used for computed tomography, such as Optiray (ioversol) and Iomeron (iomeprol), are associated with the reduced risk of adverse reactions and toxicity in comparison with ionic CAs, such as Hexabrix. Hexabrix has previously been used for imaging articular cartilage but has been commercially discontinued. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Optiray and Iomeron as alternatives for visualisation of articular cartilage in small animal joints using contrast‐enhanced micro‐computed tomography (CECT). For this purpose, mouse femora were immersed in different concentrations (20%–50%) of Optiray 350 or Iomeron 350 for periods of time starting at f..