The feasibility of contrast echocardiography in the assessment of right ventricular size and function

Background Right ventricle (RV) evaluation requires dedicated imaging to achieve a comprehensive functional and anatomical assessment. Right ventricular imaging could be technically difficult which results in suboptimal visibility and inconsistent assessment between observers. The aim of this study was to assess feasibility and the additive value of contrast enhancement for right ventricular evaluation. Methods Eighty patients referred for clinically indicated echocardiography studies were included. Patients with irregular rhythms were excluded. Dedicated RV‐focused view was attained; RV dimensions measured, and RV segment visualization and wall motion were assessed with and without contrast enhancement. Paired sample t test was used to compare continuous variables, Wilcoxon signed‐rank test to compare segments visualization on enhanced versus (vs) nonenhanced images, and Cohen kappa coefficient to assess the agreement of wall motion between two observers. Reproducibility was measured by the absolute mean difference method. Results A total of 240 total segments of 80 patients were analyzed, and 178 (74%) were visible on unenhanced while 221 (92%) on enhanced images, P