Abstract

In this review, we will give a critical update of published studies using ultrasound for targeted therapeutic use. We will briefly discuss the interaction mechanisms and their effects in non-invasive delivery of therapeutic agents. Moreover, the mechanisms by which ultrasonic contrast agents facilitate the delivery of drugs and genes into tissue will be discussed, together with recent applications and perspectives of targeted-microbubbles in cardiovascular medicine.

Keywords: Therapeutic ultrasound, targeted contrast agents, cardiovascular disease, contrast echocardiography