J Intensive Care Med. 2023 Feb 24:8850666231159019. doi: 10.1177/08850666231159019. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
The use of agitated saline contrast (ASC) during echocardiographic examinations is a well-established practice, most commonly performed to identify atrial septal abnormalities in the context of stroke. In the intensive care unit, this technique may be employed to identify anatomic right-to-left shunts (either intracardiac or transpulmonary) that may be contributing to hypoxemic respiratory failure. This narrative review will describe the technique of ASC injection, summarize clinical scenarios where it may be useful, and review the strengths and limitations of the tool.
PMID:36827332 | DOI:10.1177/08850666231159019