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.

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.
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 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.
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.
'Critical' oversight of 7 factors increases contrast waste
Since the onset of the iodinated contrast shortage in 2022, countless tactics have been deployed to optimize use of the imaging agent, but many have been overlooked.

Test bolus of diluted contrast optimizes scan timing during CTA

It also reduces iodine uptake and radiation dose in patients, without sacrificing image quality.

August 1, 2024

Contrast protocols based on lean body weight save supplies, reduce patient risk

Adjusting contrast dose based on a patient’s lean body weight provides the same image quality as other administration methods, new data show.

July 16, 2024

The feasibility of reduced contrast flow rates in PE studies

Around one out of every 1,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism every year, but even more undergo imaging to rule out clots.

June 21, 2024

Fluorinated contrast agents show 'strong potential' for MRI theranostics

Experts have developed a first-of-its-kind fluorinated contrast agent they believe will provide more detailed MR imaging and aid in the treatment of certain cancers.

June 20, 2024

GBCA doses can be reduced by over 50% for some MRI exams

In some cases, contrast doses can be reduced by as much as 62% without sacrificing diagnostic quality.

June 14, 2024

Dose reduction protocol makes multiple same-day contrast injections possible when necessary

This reduction protocol allows for acceptable lesion visualization while also providing a cautionary cushion when the safety of sequential contrast injections is in question.

May 31, 2024

Investigation into patient's death after contrast injection begins

The man's wife told the court that he had undergone similar scans multiple times before and had never experienced any sort of adverse reaction.

May 23, 2024

time-delayed MRI phases improve brain tumor visualization

Using multiple MRI phases after contrast injection significantly improves visualization of brain tumors

Researchers are proposing making additional phases beyond the 10-minute mark mandatory when analyzing brain metastases.

May 20, 2024

Imaging Contrast

New protocol addresses contrast allergies in patients with suspected stroke

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

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

New contrast injection system inks FDA clearance

'Critical' oversight of 7 factors increases contrast waste