Imaging Contrast

Contrast agents are injected into patients to help enhance images to make it easier for radiologists distinguish specific areas of the body from surrounding tissues. The most commonly used agents are iodinated contrast dye for computed tomography (CT), interventional cath lab angiography,  RF fluoroscopy, and in surgical OR procedures. MRI scans typically use gadolinium-based contrast agents. Ultrasound and echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) imaging use contrast agents composed of microscopic bubbles to enhance images that otherwise would be suboptimal.

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Experts may have discovered why some patients are more susceptible to GBCA-related side effects

A new study focuses on the role oxalic acid may play in the body’s ability to eliminate gadolinium after an MRI study.

The Agitation Solutions Orbis Microbubble Generator simplifies and streamlines the process of saline agitation and delivery for cardiac bubble studies using a single use syringe. It is was cleared for use in Canada in 2024.

Right heart cardiac ultrasound contrast agent for shunts enters U.S. trial

Currently there are no FDA cleared echocardiography contrast agents commercially available for use on the right side of the heart to detect shunts, but a new agent that promises to improve workflow and imaging is about to enter a U.S. trial. 

OSU researchers studying ability of silver nanoparticles to enhance medical imaging

Why researchers believe silver nanoparticles could 'revolutionize' medical imaging

Researchers at Oregon State University are working on developing a way to make contrast agents more targeted. 

Many CT techs unprepared to manage adverse contrast reactions

Though rare, some reactions can be life-threatening, making the understanding of how to appropriately manage them a critical aspect of a technologist's responsibilities.  

Banner ASC in Sun City, Arizona.

GE Healthcare investing $138 million to bolster contrast supply

It is estimated that the demand for contrast-enhanced imaging could double over the next decade. 

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New GBCA uses 60% less gadolinium

Bayer’s latest contrast agent is proving its potential in clinical trials as a promising alternative to agents with higher gadolinium content. 

Simulated MR images could eliminate the need for contrast in prostate scans.

Could synthetic images replace the need for contrast?

Synthetic images are often of diagnostic quality and can be reliably used to assess clinically significant prostate cancer while also sparing patients from contrast exposure.

Standard contrast protocols may be 'overdosing' women with the imaging agent

New research suggests female patients attenuate significantly more contrast media in their vessels and organs compared to men. 

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How to score accreditation for a radiotherapy theranostics program

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Right heart cardiac ultrasound contrast agent for shunts enters U.S. trial

Currently there are no FDA cleared echocardiography contrast agents commercially available for use on the right side of the heart to detect shunts, but a new agent that promises to improve workflow and imaging is about to enter a U.S. trial.