Artifacts and pitfalls in contrast-enhanced ultrasound of the liver

Ultraschall Med. 2014 Apr;35(2):108-25; quiz 126-7. doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1355872. Epub 2014 Jan 29.

Abstract

Ultrasound technology is always connected to possible artefacts. Since introduction of ultrasound technology the knowledge of those artefacts is eminent to avoid misinterpretations. It is important to know that with the introduction of new ultrasound technology the possibility of artefacts are rising.Whereas artefacts initially were limited to B-mode sonography, every technological step (colour Doppler sonography, contrast enhanced sonography) comes with a range of new artefacts. This article is written to explain the technological basics of ultrasound artefacts and provide the reader with examples in daily practice and how to avoid them.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Artifacts*
  • Contrast Media* / administration & dosage
  • Contrast Media* / pharmacokinetics
  • Diagnostic Errors / prevention & control
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement*
  • Liver / diagnostic imaging*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Ultrasonography / methods*

Substances

  • Contrast Media