Contrast Media Storage
Contrast media – also known as a contrast medium or agent – is used in a range of common or more specialist scans, including:
X-rays - which can use a range of contrast agents
Computed tomography (CT) scans - using iodine-based contrast materials
Ultrasound scans - with a lipid bubble-base
MRI scans - where it is gadolinium-based
For contrast media for CT, or other tests, to work effectively, it must be stored between 36°C to 46°C, as this prevents extravasation – the leakage of intravenous contrast media from the vein into surrounding tissues.
Here at QED Scientific, we have the safe and ideal solution for warming bottles of contrast media - the MW-ECO Warming Cabinet and we can custom-build your contrast media storage to meet your specific setting if required.
To find out more or speak to a member of the team, why not call us on 01663 735 494?
Why is a contrast medium needed for scans?
Intravenous contrast material or dyes are predominantly used to enhance the quality of the image contrast when scanning the body or organs for diagnosis or treatment.
They generally work by changing the way that electromagnetic radiation or ultrasound waves interact with the internal organs or limbs.
While the contrast medium can differ depending on the type of scan that will follow or the needs of the patient:
The type of scans needed
As we identified above, the contrast media for CT commonly includes iodinated contrast agents while MRI scans need gadolinium-based contrast agents for it to be effective.
Lipid bubble-base contrast medium is most often used in ultrasound scanning.
The needs of the patient
In some cases, the patient may have health concerns or complications that mean the choice of intravenous contrast is narrowed. This can be because of:
Contrast material-induced nephrotoxicity - sometimes called contrast-induced nephropathy, is a kidney function injury that comes from exposure to a contrast agent.
Kidney disease - ranging from very poor kidney function to severe chronic kidney disease or even acute renal failure.
Allergic reactions - covering everything from mild reactions to severe adverse reactions.
In these instances, a lipid bubble-base intravenous contrast medium may be more appropriate.
MW-ECO warming cabinet for contrast media
Our MW-Eco modes are specifically designed for warming bottles of intravenous contrast medium within CT scanner suites for easy access.
Distributing heat evenly throughout the warmer, this contrast media storage ensures the patient is comfortable when it is administered before a CT scan and improves the diagnostic value of the imaging examination.
Features of the MW-ECO warming cabinet
There are seven standard sizes of intravenous contrast media warming cabinets available, all benefiting from a digital microprocessor control.
Likewise, each contrast medium warming cabinet is CE-certified and manufactured in the UK, so comes with a 5-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Other features and benefits include:
Factory set contrast medium warming temperature of 37°C with the option to increase it up to 40°C.
Optimum temperature control through the use of a quiet, internal fan and fast recovery after the door is opened.
Three levels of temperature safety and automatic overheat protection, with secondary independent overheat safety fail-safe protection.
Range of capacity options – safely store and warm between 10 – 140 bottles of contrast media.
Medical grade stainless steel interior with powder-painted exterior for easy cleaning and durability.
Wall-mounting is possible for smaller contrast medium warming cabinets.
Additional range of accessories and options available depending on your requirements.
Other warming equipment from QED Scientific
In addition to our contrast medium warming and storage, we also offer a range of standard-sized cabinets for warming other healthcare essentials, including fluids and blankets.
Fluid warmers
With a temperature range from above ambient to 60°C, our fluid warmers are designed to hold bottles from 1 litre up to 3 litres or bags from 500ml to 3 litres.
Capacities are from 9 to 240 x 1-litre bottles on heavy-duty wire shelves and 2 to 60 x 3-litre bags in wire baskets.
Additional accessories include:
· Stands for under-bench models
· Lockable wheels for larger cabinets
· Door locks to prevent unauthorised access
Blanket warmers
Used for warming cotton blankets in critical care areas, A&E resus rooms, and operating theatres, our blanket warmers contain baskets for storing 4 to 50 standard cotton blankets up to a temperature of +80°C.
Other benefits include:
Stands or wheels for the smaller models
Door locks to prevent unauthorised access
Combination warmers
Also used in A&E and operating theatres, but where floor space is limited, our combination warmers are the ideal solution for warming blankets and fluids in the same unit.
These warmers also feature lockable wheels on all models and digital door locks for restricted access.
Contrast medium warming and storage from QED Scientific
For reliable and high-quality contrast medium warming options that improve patient comfort and ensure scanning is as effective as possible, why not contact the team at QED Scientific?
As an approved medical equipment supplier for the NHS, we offer personalised recommendations that consider cost, performance, and patient outcomes.
To discuss your ideal contrast media storage, don’t hesitate to contact us on 01663 735 494 or email us at info@qedscientific.com and we’ll be happy to help.
