Abstract: An ultrasound color flow imaging system is programmed to optimize display images on a display monitor (18) by automatically adjusting a threshold. B-mode data corresponding to valid color data is subjected to statistical analysis including mean and standard deviation (S3). The threshold is computed according to mean plus k (standard deviation), where k preferably is based on a linear regression equation.

Abstract: A method and system for imaging contrast agent within human or animal tissue, organs and/or blood is provided. Contrast agents, such as perfluorocarbon gas-filled albumin microbubbles which exhibit momentary contrast enhancement when exposed to high intensity ultrasound are injected into a patient. Periodic images are generated to avoid reduction in the contrast provided by the contrast agents due to ultrasound destruction. Between the periodic images, an M-mode image is substantially continuously updated to allow the user to better locate and maintain imaging of a region of interest, determine dynamic movement within the region of interest, access attenuation, determine an appropriate trigger point, and view perfusion of the contrast agent between the periodic images while minimizing destruction of contrast agent. In one embodiment, an ultrasound system alternates between triggered firings of a two-dimensional B-mode image and substantially continuous updating of an M-mode image.