WFUMB Technological Review: How to Perform Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound of the Lung

Abstract

The use of ultrasound has revolutionized the evaluation of pulmonary complaints and pathology. Historically, most lung ultrasound uses described are limited to B-mode, M-mode and occasionally color Doppler. However, the use of contrast can significantly expand the diagnostic capabilities of lung ultrasound. Ultrasound contrast enables significant expansion of therapeutic and intervention capabilities. We provide a detailed description of contrast administration, phases and uses in lung ultrasound. Additionally provided are example contrast use cases and illustrative examples of contrast use in a wide range of lung ultrasound applications including pneumonia, atelectasis, pulmonary embolism and neoplasms. Clinical practice examples will help providers incorporate contrast use into their lung ultrasound practice.

Keywords: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound; European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology; Guideline; Lung; World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology.