Ultrasound imaging and contrast agents: a safe alternative to MRI?

Microbubble contrast media are used to enhance ultrasound images. Because ultrasound is a real-time investigation, contrast-enhanced ultrasound offers possibilities for perfusion imaging. This review is conducted to evaluate the safety of contrast-enhanced ultrasound and its possible role in medical imaging. The safety of diagnostic ultrasound is still an important field of research. The wanted and unwanted effects of ultrasound and microbubble contrast media as well as the effects of ultrasound on these microbubbles are described. Furthermore, some of the possible applications and indications of contrast-enhanced ultrasound will be discussed. The shared advantages of MRI and ultrasound are the use of non-ionizing radiation and non-nephrotoxic contrast media. From this review it can be concluded that, for certain indications, contrast enhanced ultrasound could be a safe alternative to MRI and a valuable addition to medical imaging.