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Harmonic imaging: echocardiographic enhanced contrast intensity and duration
M R Allen1, P A Pellikka, H R Villarraga
1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
International Journal of Cardiac Imaging
|September 3, 1999
Summary
Second harmonic imaging significantly improves Levovist contrast enhancement and duration in the left ventricle compared to fundamental imaging. This advanced ultrasound technique offers better visualization for cardiac assessments.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Medical Ultrasound Technology
- Diagnostic Echocardiography
Background:
- Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is valuable for assessing cardiac function.
- Levovist is an ultrasound contrast agent used in echocardiography.
- Evaluating imaging modalities for optimal contrast agent visualization is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the intensity and duration of Levovist contrast effect in the left ventricle using harmonic versus fundamental ultrasound imaging.
- To determine the efficacy of second harmonic imaging for enhancing Levovist visualization.
Main Methods:
- Nine patients with suspected coronary artery disease underwent intravenous Levovist injection.
- Contrast intensity was measured using qualitative grading and videodensitometric analysis.
- Duration of contrast effect was timed from appearance to disappearance.
Main Results:
- Second harmonic imaging showed significantly greater pixel intensity increase (25.5 vs 7.1; P < 0.012).
- Qualitative contrast scores were higher (2.6 vs 1.2; P < 0.01) with harmonic imaging.
- Contrast effect duration was significantly longer (242 s vs 53 s; P < 0.004) using harmonic imaging.
Conclusions:
- Second harmonic imaging significantly enhances Levovist contrast intensity in the left ventricle.
- Harmonic imaging prolongs the visible duration of the contrast effect.
- This suggests second harmonic imaging is superior for Levovist-based cardiac ultrasound assessments.