The use of contrast agents in ultrasound is primarily aimed at improving what?

The primary aim of using contrast agents in ultrasound is to improve image clarity. Contrast agents enhance the differences in acoustic properties between tissues and vessels, which allows for better visualization of structures and blood flow. In ultrasound, small gas-filled bubbles can be injected into the bloodstream; these bubbles are highly reflective to ultrasound waves, leading to a significant increase in echogenicity. This enhances the ability to differentiate between various types of tissues and identify pathology, ultimately providing clearer and more detailed images.

While resolution refers to the ability to distinguish between closely spaced objects, the clarity derived from the use of contrast agents focuses more on the overall quality and interpretability of the images rather than just distinguishing fine details. Impedance matching and frame rate are related to the technical performance of the ultrasound system but do not directly correlate to the primary purpose of enhancing the visual clarity of the images captured using contrast agents.