Sonus and HP finish contrast trial

Developmental work continues on EchoGen, an ultrasound contrast agent from Sonus Pharmaceuticals. In conjunction with ultrasound scanner vendor Hewlett-Packard, Sonus has completed an image optimization trial that has determined the scanner control parameters required to provide the highest level of cardiac image enhancement using its EchoGen ultrasound contrast agent.

The trial, which was conducted at the VA Medical Center in Dallas, consisted of 18 patients who were given EchoGen and then scanned using an HP Sonos 2500 LE echocardiography scanner. Sonos 2500 LE was designed for use in harmonic imaging studies with ultrasound contrast (SCAN 7/3/96).

In addition to determining optimal system settings, researchers found that on average, EchoGen demonstrated a persistence of at least five minutes, according to Sonus, which is headquartered in Bothell, WA.