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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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. 

The imaging iodine contrast shortage is delaying procedures and causing rationing at hospitals. impact is it having on hospitals and the tough decisions that are being made to triage patients to determine if they will get a contrast CT scan or an interventional or surgical procedure requiring contrast. Photo by Dave Fornell

Multidose contrast injectors could increase waste in some radiology departments

These findings are important from both environmental and operational standpoints, authors of a new Academic Radiology paper point out. 

New protocol addresses contrast allergies in patients with suspected stroke

In patients with suspected stroke, contrast allergies present a significant dilemma, as contrast-enhanced imaging is often used to guide treatment decisions.

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GBCA dose reduced by up to 80% with help from deep learning-based image reconstruction

Although GBCAs are largely considered safe, there are concerns about how gadolinium retention could affect patients who require repeated imaging.

Deep learning recons reduce contrast and radiation doses in aortic CTA

Deep learning reconstruction cuts radiation and contrast dose by half in aortic CTA exams

A new analysis in Academic Radiology dives into the importance of finding balance between reducing radiation exposure while maintaining image quality. 

Bayer's new CT contrast injection system earns FDA clearance.

New contrast injection system inks FDA clearance

The system can be set up in as little as two minutes and needs just 20 seconds to prime in between patients. 

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