Our History
Following the FDA’s decision in 2007 to require boxed warnings on ultrasound contrast agents, a number of cardiologists, radiologists and other ultrasound professionals around the world came together to advocate for their patients’ interests. This grassroots outpouring of concern and determination led to a positive and constructive relationship with the FDA — and to the launch of the International Contrast Ultrasound Society (ICUS) at the 2008 International Bubble Conference in Chicago.
Today, ICUS is the world’s only global, multi-disciplinary medical society exclusively focused on promoting the safe and appropriate use of CEUS to improve patient outcomes and experiences. Led by an international team of CEUS experts, ICUS now has members in over 70 countries and is the most important voice for the CEUS field.
Since its founding, ICUS has been at the forefront of CEUS education,
communications and advocacy aimed at the medical and policy communities,
as well as the public.
For example:
- ICUS recently launched “Basic Training” educational programs for novice and experienced ultrasound imaging professionals in locations across the country, with specialized emphasis on cardiovascular CEUS and abdominal CEUS.
- The CEUS News Monitor is now available in English, Mandarin and Portuguese, and is emailed across the globe.
- ICUS advocacy plays an important role in regulatory advances — including the recent removal of contraindications for known or suspected cardiac shunts, and approval of the first pediatric CEUS indications.
- ICUS proactively supports appropriate reimbursement for CEUS in clinical practice.
- The revamped ICUS website is a comprehensive CEUS resource for ultrasound professionals, hospital administrators, payers and the public.
And, more generally, ICUS has been at the forefront of raising awareness that CEUS, when used appropriately.
- Improves the accuracy and reliability of frontline ultrasound imaging in many patients.
- Reduces the need for redundant, more expensive, and sometimes riskier downstream diagnostic testing.
- Speeds access to appropriate therapy, changes outcomes and saves lives in certain patient populations.
- Reduces overall healthcare costs.
- Improves hospital workflows.
- Does not expose patients or healthcare professionals to ionizing radiation, which may increase risk of cancer.
- Utilizes contrast agents (or enhancement agents) that do not contain dye, which may increase the risk of kidney damage.
- Furthers public policy at a time of heightened concerns regarding overall health care costs and the cumulative impact of ionizing radiation due to medical diagnostic testing.
