Chapters authored
Ultrasound Elastographic Features of Focal Liver Lesions: A Review
The assessment of the mechanical properties of focal liver lesions (FLLs), such as stiffness, deformation, and elasticity, using liver sonoelastography remains an area of ongoing investigation. This review aims to summarize the current evidence on FLLs, highlighting the technical and methodological limitations of existing studies, as well as exploring potential future applications. It will cover essential factors for successful study execution, including the types and limitations of sonoelastographic methods, proper technique implementation to avoid common pitfalls, and guidance on constructing reports to convey critical information. Elastographic measurements are typically based on the assumption that malignant lesions are stiffer than benign ones, though variations in lesion structure and surrounding liver parenchyma may affect the results. Although the accuracy of elastography for FLLs is not ideal and does not always provide perfect differentiation, it can serve as a useful adjunct in patients unable to undergo contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or in combination with other sonographic techniques such as multiparametric ultrasound. It may also help differentiate between types of FLLs when the differential diagnosis is narrowed to specific subgroups. Additionally, elastographic techniques can assist in biopsy guidance and in evaluating treatment responses to ablative therapies. The integration of artificial intelligence-assisted technologies may further enhance the diagnostic potential of elastography for FLLs in the future.
Part of the book: Elastography