National Association Endorses Recommendations for Contrast Agent Use in Heart Ultrasounds (Echocardiograms)

MORRISVILLE, N.C., Nov 04, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- American Society of Echocardiography Lays out Clinical Applications and Safety Considerations

The American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) today backed the use of contrast agents, used to enhance echocardiogram images, and provided a guide for physicians who may be hesitant to use the contrast agents following a 2007 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) black box warning. In a new statement, supported by expert consensus opinion, critical review, and evidence-based research, ASE outlines why, when and how the contrast agents should be used to enhance diagnosis, the role for each person in the lab, and methods to implement contrast in the lab. The statement, "The American Society of Echocardiography Consensus Statement on the Clinical Applications of Ultrasonic Contrast Agents in Echocardiography," was released in the November 2008 issue of The Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography.

source: MarketWatch