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.

AI could reduce reliance on gadolinium for contrast-enhanced MRI
New artificial intelligence technology could be used as a complimentary tool alongside low-dose GBCAs to enhance exams without sacrificing image quality.
Hemp and other plant-based compounds could be future of contrast-enhanced imaging
Experts are working to develop agents they say can enhance imaging studies without the risks associated with traditional contrast media.
State law change allows technologists to administer contrast under remote supervision
The update eliminates the requirement for a physician to be on-site and now allows techs to perform venipuncture and conduct contrast administration under remote supervision.
Tips for preventing 'unpredictable' hypersensitivity contrast reactions
Experts recently developed a new set of recommendations to help providers better navigate decisions related to contrast administration, sharing their guidance in Insights into Imaging.
Carbon dioxide a safe, effective contrast alternative for vascular procedures
Researchers believe that it could be especially beneficial in patients with impaired kidney function who may be at risk of adverse reactions to standard ICM.

Novel ‘double-contrast’ method spots small tumors on MRI

University of California, Davis, researchers believe their new probe could help detect very small, early stage tumors.

University spinoff receives $750K to develop iron-based alternative to gadolinium contrasts

Ferric Contrast, a contrast agent company founded by faculty from the University at Buffalo in New York, says doctors and patients want new options in MR imaging.

New MRI contrast agent detects cancers before they spread to the brain

The material increases magentic resonance sensitivity so that providers can visualize abnormal tissue changes indicative of metastasis.

‘Game changer’: MRI contrast agent targets new liver cancer biomarker

Initial results were so successful that the material has been fast-tracked by the FDA in an effort to test its accuracy in human clinical trials.

No gadolinium required: New take on old MRI contrast shows positive results

University of Texas at Dallas researchers applied their novel method to organic radical contrast agents with encouraging conclusions.

ACR: Risk of administering CT contrast in patients with kidney disease ‘has been overstated’

The National Kidney Foundation joined the college in releasing a new consensus document that answers key questions and offers recommendations for using IV contrast in patients with impaired kidney function.

‘One stop’ CT perfusion requires less contrast, radiation dose than CCTA

The new approach offers more comprehensive information with no loss of image quality, and may alter the care landscape for patients with coronary artery disease.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound predicts risk of progression to HCC

The researchers analyzed 39 consecutive patients with 44 pathologically confirmed cirrhotic nodules who first received a CEUS exam, followed by a traditional follow-up ultrasound every three or four months for their study.

Imaging Contrast

AI could reduce reliance on gadolinium for contrast-enhanced MRI

Hemp and other plant-based compounds could be future of contrast-enhanced imaging

State law change allows technologists to administer contrast under remote supervision

Tips for preventing 'unpredictable' hypersensitivity contrast reactions

Carbon dioxide a safe, effective contrast alternative for vascular procedures