Intraoperative assessment of myocardial perfusion using contrast echocardiography.
Myocardial contrast echocardiography is a new technique capable of assessing regional myocardial perfusion in vivo in real time.  This article reviews the background, principles, experimental validation, and clinical uses of intraoperative myocardial contrast echocardiography.  Data can be derived both for online visual and computer analyses.  The technique can be useful in determining the sequence of bypass graft placement and the success of graft anastamoses.  Anastamoses can be revised immediately if needed. It is hoped that this technique will improve intraoperative myocardial preservation and will diminish the rate of perioperative myocardial infarction.
Department of Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville 22908.
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Spotnitz
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Kaul
D002314:Cardioplegic Solutions; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003326:Coronary Circulation; D003331:Coronary Vessels / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery; D004452:Echocardiography / Q000379:methods*; D004869:Equipment Safety; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation; D007432:Intraoperative Period