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.

Ultrasound societies want the FDA to remove contrast label warning

The International Contrast Ultrasound Society (ICUS) is again urging the FDA to remove the “black box” warning from ultrasound contrast agent (UCA) labels, following its filing of a September 2018 citizen petition with the federal agency.

March 6, 2019

MRI, novel contrast agent improves measurement of brain’s calcium activity

The technique, which combines MRI with a manganese-based contrast agent, could help researchers better understand how neurons communicate in the brain, according to the study published online Feb. 22 in Nature Communications.

February 25, 2019

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