Contrast-enhanced 3D ultrasound in the radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors
Date
2008Author
Leen, EdwardKumar, Senthil
Khan, Shahid A.
Low, Gavin
Ong, Keh Oon
Tait, Paul
AVERKIOU, MICHALAKIS A.
Source
World Journal of Gastroenterology : WJGVolume
15Pages
289-299Google Scholar check
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Liver metastases and hepatocellular carcinomas are two of the most common causes of cancer deaths in the world. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a well recognized, effective and minimally invasive means of treating malignant hepatic tumors. This article describes the use of contrast-enhanced 3D ultrasound (CE-3DUS) in the staging, targeting and follow-up of patients with liver tumors undergoing RFA. In particular, its value in the management of large hepatic lesions will be illustrated. Current limitations of CE-3DUS and future developments in the technique will also be discussed. In summary, CE-3DUS is useful in the RFA of liver tumors with improved detection and display of occult lesions and recurrence, in the assessment of lesional geometry and orientation for a more accurate planning and guidance of multiple RFA needle electrodes in large tumors and in the evaluation of residual or recurrent disease within the immediate and/or subsequent follow-up periods.