Visualization of coronary arteries using intravenous contrast agent and real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography in a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

J Am Soc Echocardiogr. 2005 Feb;18(2):188-91. doi: 10.1016/j.echo.2004.08.020.

Abstract

Real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography is a recently developed imaging technique that provides unique information on spatial geometry in real time. We described an asymptomatic patient with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy for whom 3-dimensional echocardiography was performed after intravenous injection of perfluorocarbon-filled microbubbles. It resulted in enhancement of the left ventricular endocardial border delineation and myocardial perfusion in the hypertrophic septum. A clear visualization of the entire course of the left anterior descending coronary artery and its septal perforator branches was obtained. This case illustrates the potential of real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography to improve the anatomic evaluation of coronary arteries, especially when combined with contrast agents.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic / physiopathology
  • Computer Systems*
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage*
  • Coronary Vessels / diagnostic imaging*
  • Coronary Vessels / physiopathology
  • Echocardiography, Three-Dimensional*
  • Fluorocarbons / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular / diagnostic imaging
  • Image Enhancement
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Male
  • Myocardial Reperfusion
  • Stroke Volume

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Fluorocarbons