kontrastiultraäänet

Kontrastiultraäänet, also known as contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), is a medical imaging technique that utilizes a special type of contrast agent to improve the visualization of blood flow and tissue perfusion. Unlike standard ultrasound, which relies solely on the reflection of sound waves from tissues, CEUS introduces microbubbles into the bloodstream. These microbubbles are much larger than red blood cells and have strong echogenic properties, meaning they efficiently reflect ultrasound waves.

When injected intravenously, the contrast agent circulates through the body, highlighting blood vessels and areas of increased or decreased blood supply. The ultrasound machine is then used to detect the signals from these microbubbles, creating enhanced images. This allows for a more detailed assessment of organs, tumors, and vascular abnormalities.

CEUS is particularly useful in diagnosing and characterizing liver lesions, evaluating kidney masses, and assessing blood flow in various vascular structures. It offers several advantages, including real-time imaging, no ionizing radiation, and a low incidence of allergic reactions compared to other contrast agents used in CT or MRI. The technique is generally well-tolerated and can be performed in an outpatient setting.