An Evaluation of Oral Cholecystography

RADIOLOGICAL studies permit evaluation of the gallbladder and its function with greater precision than is possible to achieve when examining any other abdominal organ. Oral cholecystography with iopanoic acid (Telepaque) is the examination most frequently employed for this purpose. The entire medical profession accords a remarkable level of confidence to cholecystographic findings. Thus, it appears appropriate to review the basic considerations involved in this examination as well as the significance of the findings that result from such studies.

The Examination 

Opaque Medium.—  Iopanoic acid is the opacifying agent used by almost all radiologists, since it has been shown to be less toxic and generally more useful than its predecessors. Study continues on other orally given agents, although none as yet have shown sufficient additional advantages to supplant iopanoic acid.

Dosage.—  An initial dose of 3 gm is generally accepted as adequate. There is no justification for huge doses. On the