Microbubble Contrast Agents and Vascular Imaging
The introduction of microbubble contrast agents extended ultrasound capabilities by enhancing vascular and perfusion imaging and contrast enhanced ultrasound provided real time assessment of blood flow in organs and lesions and became useful in liver imaging and in characterization of focal lesions
Clinical Advantages and Safety
Contrast enhanced ultrasound offered bedside perfusion assessment without ionizing radiation and with a favorable safety profile and it proved valuable for patients with renal impairment who could not receive iodinated or gadolinium based agents
Adoption and Protocol Development
Clinical adoption required development of injection protocols imaging settings and interpretation criteria and professional societies published guidance to support consistent use and to define indications and contraindications