Contrast Echocardiography

Contrast echocardiography has several advantages compared to other non-invasive imaging techniques like cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and cardiac computer tomography. First, it can be performed without the radiation exposure of computer tomography and without the potential nephrotoxisity of the gadolinium contrast agent necessary to assess myocardial perfusion by magnetic resonance imaging. Second, it can be performed bed-side and give immediate answers to important clinical questions in management of patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease. Contrast echocardiography requires intravenous administration of a second or third generation ultrasound contrast agent during contrast specific ultrasound imaging.