Learning objectives
The description of the Quantitative Elastography QElaXto (Esaote S.p.A.,
Genova,
Italy) point Shear Wave Elastography (pSWE) technology and the illustration of the technical and practical aspects for a correct procedure of tissue stiffness quantification of the liver.
Background
pSWE delivers a quantitative measure of tissue stiffness (expressed in Shear Wave propagation velocity or deduced Young Modulus in KPa) for a small tissue sample.
pSWE is based on a perturbation and a reading phase.
Non-invasive methods such as pSWE can now be used instead of liver biopsy in patients with chronic hepatitis C,
to assess liver disease severity (fibrosis) before therapy at a safe level of predictability.
What pSWE is about
Point Shear Wave Elastography (pSWE) technology is characterized by the generation of a...
Findings and procedure details
Practical steps and technical procedure to achieve proper QElaXto tissue stiffness quantification of the liver are described.
Proper insights are given regarding the latest advancements in terms of technology and workflow optimization.
Some technical tools for a real-time feedback of the measurement quality assessment,
as well as some optimized workflow solutions,
are described.
Available measurements and indexes are considered as well as tips and tricks for their correct assessment.
QElaXto – How it works
QElaXto delivers a quantitative measure of liver stiffness (expressed in Shear...
Conclusion
QElaXto pSWE is a feasible method for non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis.
Knowledge of technical and practical aspects is crucial for the correct application of SWE and to perform proper measurements of the liver stiffness.
Optimized workflow and real-time feedback tools can be useful in terms of examination speed up and improved diagnostic confidence.
References
[1] Bamber J,
Cosgrove D,
Dietrich CF,
Fromageau J,
Bojunga J,
Calliada F,
Cantisani V,
Correas JM,
D'Onofrio M,
Drakonaki EE,
Fink M,
Friedrich-Rust M,
Gilja OH,
Havre RF,
Jenssen C,
Klauser AS,
Ohlinger R,
Saftoiu A,
Schaefer F,
Sporea I,
Piscaglia F,
“EFSUMB guidelines and recommendations on the clinical use of ultrasound elastography.
Part 1: Basic principles and technology”,
Ultraschall Med.
2013 Apr;34(2):169-84.
doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1335205
[2] European Association for the Study of the Liver.
EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines: management of hepatitis C virus infection....