Although the technology required for the successful application of contrast echo cardiography has evolved rapidly over the past few years, the technique has not yet gained widespread clinical acceptance. One important reason for the lack of clinical acceptance is the relative complexity of the technique, particularly in respect to myocardial perfusion imaging. The interaction between micro bubbles and ultrasound is an entire field by itsel£ as is the coronary microvasculature. It is in this regard that practicing echocardiographers, cardiologists in training, radiologists, so no­ graphers, and students will find 'A Handbook of Contrast Echocardiography' particularly useful. Written by two leaders in the field who have presented illustrative cases not only from their own laboratories but also from others around the world, this volume is a lucid, concise, and practical guide for the day-to-day use of contrast echocardiography. Dr Peter Burns has been involved in almost all the technical advances in the imaging methods that have made it possible to detect opacification of the left ventricular cavity and myocardium from a venous injection of microbubbles. He has been responsible to a large degree for advancing our understanding of the interaction between micro bubbles and ultrasound, which he describes in clear and easy to understand terms in this book. Dr Harald Becher has been active in the clincal application of contrast echocardiography for several years and has gained considerable experience with many imaging techniques and microbubbles, which he describes in this volume in some detail.

Foreword by: S. Kaul