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By Gates Guarin

Imaging procedures postponed due to global contrast dye shortage

Jun 11, 2022 | 9:46 AM

EDMONTON, AB – Up to 1,500 imaging procedures will be postponed per week by Alberta Health Services effective immediately due to a temporary shortage of contrast dye.

These dyes are used in procedures such as CT scan imaging. Procedures will only be deferred if it is considered clinically safe to do so.

AHS is also considering the use of alternate imaging options, such as Ultrasound and MRI, where clinically appropriate.

There is currently a worldwide shortage of contrast dye material which is impacting healthcare systems across North America, with other jurisdictions also postponing some imaging scans.

AHS typically performs about 10,000 imaging scans per week in Alberta, of which about 50 per cent use the contrast dye. AHS will update the public as this situation evolves. Albertans concerned about their procedure status are encouraged to contact their physician.

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