JSUM ultrasound elastography practice guidelines: basics and terminology

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Biophysics

Background:

• Commercial elastography equipment has been available for ten years, with demonstrated clinical utility.
• Most manufacturers now offer elastography, primarily using strain imaging based on external tissue compression.
• Differences in manufacturer methods for strain imaging affect image characteristics like resolution and measurement conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a foundational understanding of ultrasound elastography principles and tissue physics.
• To support the appropriate use of commercial elastography equipment.
• To enhance the acquisition of precise diagnostic information through elastography.

Main Methods:

• Review of commercial elastography methods, focusing on strain imaging and shear wave-based techniques.
• Explanation of the underlying physics of tissue elastic properties relevant to elastography.
• Guideline development for the practical application of ultrasound elastography.

Main Results:

• Strain imaging methods vary among manufacturers, impacting image quality and measurement protocols.
• Shear wave-based elastography methods are increasingly available, offering stiffness images.
• A need exists for understanding basic principles and physics for optimal equipment use.

Conclusions:

• Knowledge of elastography principles and tissue physics is essential for correct equipment application.
• Variations in commercial elastography methods necessitate a clear understanding for accurate diagnostics.
• This guideline aims to support practitioners in the effective use of ultrasound elastography.