Effects of transducer frequency and output power on the ultrasonographic contrast produced by Optison using fundamental and harmonic imaging techniques

This in vivo study demonstrated the effects of transducer frequency and out put power on the sonographic contrast produced by Optison during continuous ultrasonographic imaging in both fundamental and harmonic modes. During fu ndamental imaging, Optison produced greater contrast intensity while imagin g at higher transducer frequencies. However, in the harmonic mode, lower im aging frequencies caused Optison to produce more intense myocardial enhance ment. Regardless of imaging mode, increases in transducer output power caus ed decreases in both contrast intensity and contrast duration produced by O ptison. Proper selection of transducer frequency and output power will help optimize the quality and duration of contrast produced by Optison during c ontinuous ultrasonographic imaging.