The intensity and duration of contrast effect within the left ventricular c
avity after an intravenous bolus of Levovist Injection were observed with b
oth harmonic and fundamental imaging in nine patients with known or suspect
ed coronary artery disease. Contrast intensity was assessed by a qualitativ
e grading system (0, none; 1, weak; 2, moderate; 3, good) and by videodensi
tometric analysis of pixel intensity. Duration of left ventricular contrast
effect was determined by measuring time from the initial visual appearance
of contrast agent to its disappearance. The mean increase in pixel intensi
ty within the left ventricular cavity from precontrast to peak contrast was
significantly greater for second harmonic than for fundamental imaging (25
.5 vs 7.1; P < 0.012). The mean contrast intensity qualitative score with h
armonic imaging was higher (2.6 +/- 0.73 vs 1.2 +/- 0.44; P < 0.01) and the
duration of contrast effect was longer (242 +/- 131 s vs 53 +/- 33 s; P <
0.004). Second harmonic imaging significantly enhanced contrast intensity a
nd prolonged visible duration of contrast effect after a peripheral venous
injection of Levovist.