Clinical application and technical considerations for the use of contrast agents in the echocardiography laboratory

Abstract

Contrast imaging represents a new and exciting application to the field of ultrasonography. As with the introduction of new imaging modes (i.e., color flow imaging) or examination (i.e., stress echocardiography), a learning phase will be necessary. For optimal contrast use, it is important to understand what microbubbles are designed to enhance, how to optimize the imaging system, and how to interpret the resulting images. Types of administration and use of the agents are also important to understand. This article will offer technical tips and helpful hints to shorten the sonographer's learning curve to successfully implement optimal contrast imaging for cardiac applications.