The authors investigated possibilities and the diagnostic contribution of the modern ultrasono- graphic contrast material of the second generation Levovist ® (SH U 508 A) in Doppler examinations of pathological conditions affecting the venous system of the pelvis minor and peripheral veins. They compared the native and post-contrast examination in 15 patients. The contrast substance was administered by the i.v. route into the cubital vein. In seven patients they used the contrast substance to examine the pelvic veins, four times they examined the femoral veins, three times the legs and once the jugular and subclavian vein. In three instances administration of Levovist ® provided new diagnostic information which made the diagnosis more accurate without altering it. On the other hand, post-contrast examination of the leg did not improve the Doppler image of the investigated vein. In other instances Levovist intensified significantly the Doppler signal and thus improved the view and quality of examination in the given area and confirmed the conclusion drawn from native pictures. The administration of the ultrasonographic contrast substance did not provide fundamental findings altering the diagnosis in a significant way without which the diagnosis could not be established.

        Key words: Doppler ultrasonography - ultrasound contrast agent - Levovist ® - venous systém