Effect of US contrast agents on spectral velocities: In vitro evaluation

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of ultrasonographic (US) contrast agents on measurements of peak velocity with spectral Doppler US in stenotic and nonstenotic flow states. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nonpulsatile flow was established in a flow phantom with 0%, 50%, 75%, and 90% stenoses. SH U 508A perflenapent emulsion, and perfluorohexane emulsion were the contrast agents evaluated. Before and after administration of each contrast agent, two peak velocity measurements obtained proximal to, at the site of, and distal to the stenosis in each vessel model were averaged. The percentage difference in peak velocity after contrast agent administration was calculated for each site interrogated. The mean, SD, and coefficient of variation of the percentage difference in peak velocity were calculated. RESULTS: Percentage differences in peak velocity after contrast agent administration at different sample volume sites were not significantly different irrespective of the degree of stenosis or the contrast agent evaluated. CONCLUSION: The contrast agents evaluated do not produce a statistically significant increase in peak velocity. If this result is corroborated in clinical practice, contrast agents can be used without reevaluating existing Doppler US thresholds for stenosis.