One hundred years of the use of iodinated contrast in urological studies. Brief historical account

Abstract

After the X-rays discovery, there was a need to create radiopaque substances that would allow anatomical structures to be highlighted. Contrast media emerged to radiographically draw tubular or hollow structures such as the urinary excretory system. The purpose of this research is to describe the initial historical evolution of the contrast use in the urinary system as a tribute to the hundred years of its first feasible use in humans. For this, a historical research was carried out, theoretical and empirical methods were used that allowed the analysis of the historical trajectory of the development of iodinated contrast in urological studies. It was found that the initiators were Eduard Hascheck and Otto Lindenthal. Other scientists used contrast media in the urinary system with little value. In 1919, Carlos Heuser described its use in cystographies and ureterographies, but this was not taken into account. Berberich and Hirsch, in 1923, are leaders in performing intravenous pyelography without any accident. Several compounds were studied up to Uroselectan, a substance best adapted to urography. It is concluded that 1923 was taken as the beginning of contrasting studies on the urinary system; however, there were researches prior to it. It was not until 1930 that Uroselectan emerged, giving rise to the beginning of iodine for diagnostic purposes.

Keywords

• urografía
• medios de contraste
• yodo
• radiología