Evaluation of radiographic anatomy and function of stomach by using contrast media in the New Zealand White Rabbit

Upper gastrointestinal tract contrast study commonly refers to administration of contrast media orally. Determination of normal gastric emptying time and small intestinal transit time are useful in detecting gastrointestinal motility disorders and partial obstructions of the pylorus or small intestine. This study was conducted to evaluate radiographic anatomy and function of stomach by using contrast media in the New Zealand White Rabbit. Ten clinically healthy adult rabbits were prepared and kept for two weeks prior to study. After twenty four hour fasting, plain lateral and ventrodorsal radiographs were obtained. Ten milliliter per kilogram body weight of Iohexol was administered orally to the rabbits. Lateral and ventrodorsal radiographs were taken at zero, 10, 20 and 30 minutes after administration of contrast media and then in 30 minutes intervals until stomach completely been cleaned. Early gastric emptying time was started at 7.35±4.15 minutes. Delay gastric emptying time was started at 418.00±97.23 minutes.