This book provides a comprehensive account of the physical basis and the clinical applications of microbubble-based contrast agents. The principles underlying the use of specialized contrast-specific imaging techniques and the examination methodology are clearly described. The different clinical applications of microbubble-based agents are extensively explained with the aid of numerous high-quality illustrations, many of which are in color. In addition, research and therapeutic perspectives are addressed. All of the chapters are written by recognized experts in the field, ensuring that this volume will be of great value to everyone who has an interest in microbubble-based contrast agents, from physicists and researchers to clinical radiologists.

Basic Principles

Classification and Safety of Microbubble-Based Contrast Agents
Physical Basis and Principles of Action of Microbubble-based Contrast Agents
Characterization and Design of Microbubble-Based Contrast Agents Suitable for Diagnostic Imaging
Contrast-Specific Imaging Techniques: Technical Perspective
Contrast-Specific Imaging Techniques: Methodological Point of View
Biological Effects of Microbubble-Based Ultrasound Contrast Agents
Vascular Applications
Cerebral Vessels
Carotid Arteries
Detection of Endoleak After Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Renal Arteries
Abdominal Applications: Liver and Spleen
Characterization of Focal Liver Lesions
Detection of Focal Liver Lesions
Guidance and Assessment of Interventional Therapy in Liver
Applications of Ultrasound Microbubbles in the Spleen
Abdominal Applications: Kidneys
Characterization and Detection of Renal Tumors
Detection of Renal Perfusion Defects
Quantitative Analysis of Renal Perfusion at Contrast-Enhanced US
Cardiac Applications
Assessment of Regional Myocardial Blood Flow
Assessment of Myocardial Blood Volume
Special Topics
Abdominal Traumas
Breast
Lymph Nodes
Female Pelvis
Vesicoureteral Reflux
Pancreatic Pathology
Intestinal Pathology
Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound of the Prostate
Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Rheumatic Joint Diseases
Research Perspectives
Quantitative Analysis of Parenchymal Flow at Contrast-Enhanced US
Therapeutic Application of Microbubble-Based Agents.