Title:Ultrasound Contrast Agents: Updated Data on Safety Profile
Volume: 18
Issue: 15
Author(s): C. Aggeli, I. Felekos, G. Siasos, D. Tousoulis and C. Stefanadis
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Contrast echocardiography, safety
Abstract: Contrast echocardiography represents a major technological advancement in the constantly evolving field of cardiovascular
imaging. Over the last twenty years numerous studies have been published, illustrating the incremental value of contrast implementation
into a variety of clinical scenarios. However, serious concerns have been raised about contrast safety profile, mainly based on postmarketing
observational data and several animal studies. The latter have investigated contrast bio effects under experimental conditions
that are not consistent with daily clinical practice. On the other hand, numerous clinical trials with large registries have proven otherwise.
Not only contrast agents are efficient, but they also demonstrate a remarkable safety profile. So the question is: should we fear contrast
utilization or should we consider them as an adjunctive and indispensable clinical tool for daily bedside practice?
