Experimental evaluation of radiographic contrast media in perivascular pain receptors in the perfused isolated rabbit ear.

Abstract

The algesic effects of intravascularly injected solutions of sorbitol and ionic and nonionic contrast media (CM) with high and low osmolality were tested in the perfused isolated rabbit ear connected to the body by the great auricular nerve. The threshold for the pain reflex effect was found to be at an osmolality of between 600 and 700 mosm/kg H2O, that is, at about twice the osmolality of blood. This result is consistent with results obtained to date in investigations in the non-anesthetized rat and in diagnostic examinations with CM in humans. The effects of both sorbitol and the ionic CM at a given osmolality were dose dependent only after low doses and not after a high dose. There were no pain reactions after injection of ionic and nonionic CM with a low osmolality. Release of prostacyclin was observed in preliminary tests after injection of ionic substances with high osmolality, but not after injection of CM with low osmolality.