Contrast Specific Echocardiogram Versus Left Ventricular Opacification (LVO) Imaging Settings

This study compares "contrast specific imaging setting" images with "left ventricular opacification (LVO)" images taken on the same group of patients at different points in time, to see if one is more effective at assessing the function of the heart.

Ultrasound testing of the heart using a "dye" or contrast is often used to get clear pictures of the heart in many heart conditions. When this test is done when the heart is working hard, such as when exercising, this is called contrast stress echocardiography. Current guidelines recommend the method called "contrast specific imaging setting," as the best way of looking at the main pumping part of the heart. However, it is not known if it provides better pictures when compared to a different method called "left ventricular opacification (LVO)." This study will compare pictures in patients who have had tests done using both ways of looking at the heart and will compare; LVO; enhanced and unenhanced LVEBD; LVO imaging with contrast specific imaging Wall Motion Classification and LVO to contrast specific imaging Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF). The comparison will be done by a group of experts in cardiac ultrasound.