What is the purpose of using echo contrast agents in echocardiography?

The use of echo contrast agents in echocardiography primarily serves to enhance the visualization of cardiac structures. By improving the quality of the ultrasound images, these agents can help delineate the borders of the heart chambers, assess wall motion, and identify the presence of defects or abnormalities in the heart's structure. The echogenic properties of the contrast agents allow for better differentiation between various cardiac tissues and can assist in identifying conditions that may not be clearly visible with standard echocardiography techniques.

While reducing imaging time, measuring blood flow velocities, and replacing invasive procedures may be valuable aspects of echocardiography, they are not the main purposes of echo contrast agents. The primary function remains to improve the clarity and detail of cardiac imaging, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.