Microbubbles are intravenous contrast agents used in contrast-enhanced ultrasound. Microbubble contrast agent is different to the agitated saline contrast agent often used in echocardiographic studies.
Microbubbles consist of a gas surrounded by a lipid, lipopolymer, or polymer shell. They range from 2-10 µm.
Microbubble shells are metabolized in the liver and the gas is exhaled.
Contraindications
right-to-left vascular shunt: pre-contrast screening not recommended
allergic reaction
intra-arterial injection
Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.