Why are ultrasound contrast agents such as DEFINITY® helpful?
Up to 20% of resting echo studies result in suboptimal echocardiograms.4,5,6 A suboptimal image is one in which at least 2 out of 6 myocardial segments of the left ventricle cannot be visualized in the apical views as defined by the American Society of Echocardiography.4,5 Activated DEFINITY® is indicated for use in patients with suboptimal echocardiograms to opacify the left ventricular chamber and to improve the delineation of the left ventricular endocardial border. Imaging agents are particularly useful when examining technically difficult patients who often have suboptimal images.7,8,9 Some populations such as patients with obesity, with lung disease, undergoing mechanical ventilation and in critical care areas. It should be noted that DEFINITY® has not been used in specific clinical trials on these patient types.
Related Questions
- Can a RN teach IV skills and injection of IV contrast agents to registered diagnostic cardiac sonographers(RDCS), medical assistants, nursing assistants, or other unlicensed individuals?
- Are ultrasound contrast agents reimbursed by private insurance or Medicare?
- What diseases have been associated with gadolinium-based contrast agents?
