Activation and 3D Imaging of Phase-change Nanodroplet Contrast Agents with a 2D Ultrasound Probe

Nanodroplets are on-demand ultrasound contrast agents. They can remain in circulation longer in vivo than mi-crobubbles and can be spatiotemporally and selectively activated to provide contrast when required. Perfluorocarbon nanodroplets have been used for conventional 2D ultrasound imaging and different types of nanodroplets have been studied and characterized by researchers regarding their suitability for imaging. However, the use of nanodroplets for 3D imaging and their activation using a 2D ultrasound probe has not been reported. In this study, we investigate the nanodroplet activation using a 2D ultrasound imaging probe within clinical safety limits.