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The ongoing trade war between the United States and China could jeopardize the availability of contrast agents used for medical imaging. 

Radiology practices are already operating on razor thin margins, with price increases prompting calls for congressional action to prevent further damage. 

“MRI images provide a better view of the anatomy of the heart and the instruments used for treatment, but also of the changes made to the treated cardiac tissue,” one cardiologist explained. “Unlike X-ray images, the entire area surrounding the heart can be seen, including the blood vessels and valves."

United Imaging and other manufacturers that have established American factories may remain insulated from the trade war.

Up to 50% of all patients face an intermediate risk of developing CAD, and the optimal treatment strategy for that population remains unclear. For this study, researchers explored data from more than 400 intermediate-risk patients with a family history of premature CAD.

Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions President James Hermiller, Jr., MD, explains SCAI's push for wider adoption of new, innovative cath lab radiation protection technology to reduce radiation exposure and the need for lead aprons.