Technical aspects of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) examinations: tips and tricks

Ultrasound contrast agents have substantially extended the clinical value of ultrasound, allowing the assessment of blood flow and distribution in real-time down to microcapillary level. Selective imaging of contrast agent signals requires a contrast-specific imaging mode on the ultrasound scanner, allowing real-time separation of tissue and contrast agent signals. The creation of a contrast image requires a specific interaction between the insonated ultrasound wave and the contrast agent microbubbles, leading to persistent oscillation of the bubbles. Several technical and procedural parameters have a significant influence on the quality of CEUS images and should be controlled carefully to obtain good image quality and a reliable diagnosis. Achieving the proper balance between the respective parameters is a matter of technical knowledge and experience. Appropriate training and education should be mandatory for every investigator performing CEUS examinations.