+1 (202) 780-3397
Opinion Article - Journal of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (2023) Volume 7, Issue 3
Elastography: a revolutionary technique for non-invasive tissue characterization and diagnosis
Alice Altan*
Department of Paediatrics, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Corresponding Author:
- Alice Altan
Department of Paediatrics,
Taipei Veterans General Hospital,
Taipei, Taiwan
E-mail:Alice.a@yahoo.com.tw
Received: 31-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. AABIB-23-94530; Editor assigned: 03-Apr-2023, PreQC No. AABIB-23-94530(PQ); Reviewed: 17-Apr-2023, QC No. AABIB-23-94530; Revised: 22-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. AABIB-23-94530; Published: 29-Apr-2023, DOI:10.35841/ aabib-7.2.175
Citation: Altan A, Elastography: A revolutionary technique for non-invasive tissue characterization and diagnosis. J Biomed Imag Bioeng. 2023;7(2):175
Abstract
Introduction
Elastography is a relatively new medical imaging technique that allows for non-invasive tissue characterization and diagnosis. It uses ultrasound or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to measure tissue elasticity or stiffness, providing information about the underlying tissue structure and function. This article will discuss the principles of elastography, its advantages over traditional imaging techniques, and its current and potential applications in clinical practice.
Principles of Elastography
Elastography measures the mechanical properties of tissues, specifically their elasticity or stiffness. It uses either ultrasound or MRI to generate images that show the stiffness of tissues in different colors or shades. In ultrasound elastography, a small force is applied to the tissue, and the resulting deformation is measured using ultrasound imaging. In MRI elastography, the tissue is vibrated by sound waves, and the resulting deformation is measured using MRI. These measurements can then be used to calculate the tissue's stiffness or elasticity [1].
Advantages of Elastography
One of the main advantages of elastography is its non-invasive nature. Unlike traditional biopsy techniques that require tissue samples to be taken from the body, elastography can provide information about tissue structure and function without the need for invasive procedures. Additionally, elastography can provide real-time, high-resolution images that can be used to guide interventions or treatments [2].
Applications of Elastography
Elastography has numerous applications in clinical practice, including the diagnosis and monitoring of liver disease, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and thyroid disease. In liver disease, elastography can be used to assess the degree of fibrosis or scarring in the liver, which is an important indicator of disease severity. In breast cancer, elastography can be used to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, reducing the need for invasive biopsies. In prostate cancer, elastography can be used to guide biopsies and monitor treatment response. In thyroid disease, elastography can be used to differentiate between benign and malignant nodules [3].
Future of Elastography
As elastography continues to evolve, its potential applications in clinical practice will likely expand. For example, it may be used to monitor the progression of musculoskeletal diseases, such as arthritis, or to evaluate the efficacy of treatments for these conditions. Additionally, elastography may be used to assess the stiffness of arterial walls, which can be an important predictor of cardiovascular disease.
Furthermore, the use of elastography is not limited to the field of medicine. It has also been utilized in other areas such as biomechanics, material science, and engineering. In biomechanics, elastography has been used to investigate the mechanical properties of tissues, such as cartilage and muscle, to better understand their function and behavior. In material science, elastography has been used to evaluate the mechanical properties of polymers and composites, which are important materials in various industries. In engineering, elastography has been used to assess the mechanical properties of structures, such as buildings and bridges, to ensure their safety and stability [4].
Elastography is a valuable imaging technique that provides non-invasive information about tissue structure and function. Its advantages over traditional imaging techniques make it a valuable tool in clinical practice and beyond. Its potential applications in the future are vast and diverse, ranging from regenerative medicine to engineering. With continued research and development, elastography is poised to become an increasingly important tool for non-invasive tissue characterization and diagnosis [5].
References
- Teng DK, Wang H, Lin YQ, et al. Value of ultrasound elastography in assessment of enlarged cervical lymph nodes. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2012;13(5):2081-5.
- Alam F, Naito K, Horiguchi J, et al. Accuracy of sonographic elastography in the differential diagnosis of enlarged cervical lymph nodes: Comparison with conventional B-mode sonography. Am J Roentgeno. 2008;191(2):604-10.
- Larsen MH, Fristrup C, Hansen TP, et al. Endoscopic ultrasound, endoscopic sonoelastography, and strain ratio evaluation of lymph nodes with histology as gold standard. Endoscopy. 2012;44(08):759-66.
- Bhatia KS, Cho CC, Tong CS, et al. Shear wave elasticity imaging of cervical lymph nodes. Ultrasound Med Biol. 2012;38(2):195-201.
- Cheng KL, Choi YJ, Shim WH, et al. Virtual touch tissue imaging quantification shear wave elastography: Prospective assessment of cervical lymph nodes. Ultrasound Med Biol. 2016;42(2):378-86.