Name of the Procedure:

Ultrasound, elastography; first target lesion (Commonly known as Ultrasound Elastography, or Shear Wave Elastography)

Summary

Ultrasound elastography is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to measure the stiffness or elasticity of tissues, usually to evaluate the presence and severity of certain diseases. This procedure specifically targets the first lesion identified.

Purpose

Ultrasound elastography is used to assess the stiffness of tissues, which can help in diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions such as liver fibrosis, tumors, or other abnormal tissue growths. The goal is to provide detailed information about the tissue's properties, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Indications

• Liver diseases such as cirrhosis and fibrosis
• Breast cancer screening
• Thyroid nodules evaluation
• Musculoskeletal abnormalities
• Chronic liver disease
• Suspected tumor or lesion growth

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are usually required.
• Wear comfortable clothing and possibly a gown provided by the facility.
• You may be asked to refrain from applying lotions or creams to the target area on the day of the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will lie down on an examination table, and a clear gel will be applied to the skin over the target lesion.
2. A transducer (a small, handheld device) will be moved over the lesion area to capture images.
3. The transducer generates sound waves that pass through the tissue and measure its stiffness.
4. The collected data is processed to create elastograms, which are visual maps of tissue stiffness.
5. The procedure is painless and does not require any sedation or anesthesia.

Duration

The procedure typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

Ultrasound elastography is usually performed in radiology departments, outpatient clinics, or specialized imaging centers.

Personnel

• Radiologist or specialized sonographer (technician trained in ultrasound).
• Radiologic technologist for equipment operation.

Risks and Complications

• Generally considered to be very safe with minimal risks.
• Rarely, some temporary discomfort from the pressure of the transducer.
• No known significant complications.

Benefits

• Provides a detailed assessment of tissue stiffness, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
• Non-invasive, quick, and painless.
• Immediate results are often available.

Recovery

• No specific recovery time is needed.
• Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately following the procedure.
• Any follow-up appointments will be based on the findings from the elastography.

Alternatives

• Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE): Offers similar results but is more expensive and less widely available.
• Liver biopsy: Invasive and carries more risks but provides histological information.
• Traditional ultrasound: Can image structures but does not measure tissue stiffness.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel slight pressure as the transducer is moved over the skin. The gel may feel cool but is easily wiped away after the procedure. There is typically no pain, and the process is comfortable and quick.