Monitoring after radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors: contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) vs. contrast-enhanced computer tomography (CECT), two days after procedure
Abstract
Our research evaluated the ability of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and contrast enhanced computer tomography (CECT), performed 48 h after radiofrequency ablation (RFA), to detect residual tumor tissue. As recently published studies have evaluated periprocedural CEUS performed within 24 h after procedure and their results were not satisfactory, it seems that postponing the control test by one day could increase the sensitivity of both methods.
The quality of tumor residue detection in 48-h CEUS was comparable to that of 48-h CECT. This finding suggests the CEUS being a feasible substitute for CECT.
Both methods show reasonable sensitivity; therefore this timing seems to be appropriate for the first post-treatment control while also allowing for early retreatment if residual tumor tissue is found.