John Richard Mernagh MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Patrick Mohide MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Christopher Caco MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

1. Understand the basics of volume contrast imaging2. Understand the strengths and weaknesses of volume contrast imaging3. Learn the appearances of a number of fetal abnormalities with 2D ultrasound and volume contrast imaging

Volume Contrast Imaging (VCI) is a new technique in 2D ultrasound imaging designed to improve contrast in ultrasound images. It is based on a real time volume acquisition technique that leads to contrast enhancement and speckle suppression in the two-dimensional ultrasound image.The basic principle is a thin volume real time acquisition combined with surface and maximum gradient rendering (ie projecting a thin volume onto a 2d image).The result of VCI is a thin surface rendered image of a solid organ with a smoothing of the speckle pattern and increased contrast. In this pictorial presentation we show the usefulness of VCI in obstetrical ultrasound for the assessment of fetal anatomy. The technique will first be explained. Studies will be shown of normal and abnormal fetal anatomy using both 2D and VCI images. The usefulness and weaknesses of the technique will be demonstrated.

Mernagh, J, Mohide, P, Caco, C, Volume Contrast Imaging (VCI): A New Technique in Ultrasound.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4415231.html