2d shear wave elastography to evaluate focal liver lesions - one year hospital based observational study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Focal liver lesions (FLLs) are frequently seen in clinical practice, and proper differentiation between benign and malignant conditions is required for effective management. Conventional imaging techniques like ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) give structural information but do not offer quantitative measurement of tissue stiffness. This research investigates the clinical value of 2D Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) as a non-invasive diagnostic method in the characterization of FLLs. SWE measures liver stiffness by determining the velocity of propagating shear waves, providing real-time tissue elasticity mapping. Our hospital-based observational study over one year assessed the utility of SWE in differentiating between different FLLs, correlating its results with triple phase computed tomography results. Results show that malignant lesions had significantly greater stiffness values compared to benign counterparts, consistent with fibrosis and extracellular matrix deposition patterns. In addition, SWE was highly sensitive and specific in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and metastatic liver lesions. SWE is a safer, reproducible, and cost-effective method compared to traditional biopsy for early detection and monitoring of liver disease. This research highlights the promise of SWE in transforming liver imaging, minimizing invasive procedures, and enhancing diagnostic accuracy in everyday clinical practice.