Micro bubbles To The Rescue For Myocardial Infarcts

Interesting article published recently suggests ultrasound contrast agents may improve re-vascularization of stunned, or injured myocardium after an ischemic episode, such as a heart attack.  This study was performed on mice, but show promise.  It seems that agitating the bubbles with ultrasonic energy encourages the re-growth of blood vessels in the injured tissues of the heart.  This is promising.



Feb. 21, 2013 — Scientists from the Bonn University Hospital successfully tested a method in mice allowing the morphological and functional sequelae of a myocardial infarction to be reduced. Tiny gas bubbles are made to oscillate within the heart via focused ultrasound -- this improves microcirculation and decreases the size of the scar tissue. The results show that the mice, following myocardial infarction, have improved cardiac output as a result of this method, as compared to untreated animals.

Thanks Science Daily

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/02/130221084612.htm?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+sciencedaily%2Ftop_news%2Ftop_health+%28ScienceDaily%3A+Top+News+--+Top+Health%29