Value of Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound in Assessment of Curative Effect on Hepatic Metastases Treated with Radiofrequency Ablation

Objective To investigate the clinical value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the assessment of curative effect on hepatic metastases treated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Methods 31 cases of hepatic metastases (51 lesions) were treated with RFA and examined by CEUS. The lesions were observed through radiography and the strategies of treatment were formulated before RFA; the changes of lesions' contrast enhancement after operation were analyzed to evaluate the ablation effect. All cases were followed up for 2 ~ 22 months, CEUS and enhanced CT-MRI comparation were taken 30 min after the operation, once every month within three months and once every three months after three months of operation. Results The CEUS found 51 lesions, more than 43 lesions found by conventional ultrasonic. 46 lesions (46/51, 90.2%) appeared no enhancement in the arterial phase; 5 lesions (5/51, 9.8%) appeared abnormal enhanced-signal and received the RFA immediately. 4 lesions (4/51,7.8%) had recurrence during follow-up. Conclusions CEUS can optimize the steps of hepatic metastases treated with RFA and decrease the relapse, which has a potential perspective for clinic application.