Technology overview: SonoVue (Bracco, Milan).
Ultrasound contrast agents introduced to sonography the possibility to demonstrate microvascular organization and parenchymal perfusion. In combination with modern contrast-specific imaging modalities, contrast agent signals can be separated from tissue-derived signals, allowing the detection of extremely small quantities of contrast agent. The following article describes the physical principles for the creation of contrast-specific signals, the particular physicochemical characteristics of SonoVue, a second-generation ultrasound contrast agent, and the resulting possibilities for the assessment of physiological functions.
Greis
Christian
C
Bracco ALTANA Pharma Max-Stromeyer-Strasse 116, 78467 Konstanz, Germany. christian.greis@altanapharma.com
D003287:Contrast Media; D006801:Humans; D045423:Microbubbles; D010743:Phospholipids; D013459:Sulfur Hexafluoride; D014463:Ultrasonography
D003287:Contrast Media; D010743:Phospholipids; C420843:contrast agent BR1; D013459:Sulfur Hexafluoride