Advantages and Limitations of Point Shear Wave Elastography and 2-Dimensional Shear Wave Elastography against PercutaneousLiver Biopsy for Assessing Focal Liver Lesions

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound based noninvasive techniques for the evaluation of tissue elasticity are becoming popular in practice. An accurate diagnosis of focal liver lesions (FLLs) is very important and essential for the adequate treatment and management of different conditions. AIM: The study aims to evaluate the advantages and limitations of Point Shear Wave Elastography and 2-dimensional Shear Wave Elastography against percutaneous liver biopsy for assessing focal liver lesions. METHODS: This document reviews the advantages and limitations of point shear wave elastography (pSWE) and 2-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) against percutaneous liver biopsy for assessing focal liver lesions. RESULTS: Ultrasound elastography has shown promising results and plays an important role in the assessment of focal liver lesions but the lack of histological confirmation is a limitation, especially in cases of suspected FLLs. The Tru cut percutaneous liver biopsy has been proven as a very helpful method for an accurate histological diagnosis. The main disadvantage of this procedure is that is invasive and the complications may be life threatening. CONCLUSION: Noninvasive methods to aid clinical decisions are preferred by patients rather than liver biopsy. US elastography, in the form of pSWE, as well as 2D SWE has proved reliable for the evaluation of liver parenchyma. The investigation of pSWE and 2D-SWE for assessing the elasticity of focal liver lesions and their differentiating is still a challenging goal. Percutaneous liver biopsy provides an option for accurate histological confirmation of liver pathologies, particularly FLLs. It continues to be an important tool in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of those affected with liver disorders.