Application of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in the diagnosis of hepatic artery complications after liver transplantation

Objective To evaluate the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography(CEUS)in the diagnosis of hepatic artery complications after liver transplantation.Methods Thirty-seven patients suspected of hepatic artery complications were examined by CEUS.Contrast agent was SonoVue and low mechanical index harmonic CEUS was performed.Results CEUS helped significantly improve flow visualization in hepatic artery(100%).After contrast agent injection,mean contrast material arrival time was(16.1±5.5)s in hepatic artery and(19.3±4.6)s in portal vein.The diagnostic accuracy of hepatic artery thrombosis(HAT)was improved from 86%(30/35)to 100%(35/35)with CEUS.In the HAT group,contrast material arrival time in portal vein was(13.6±4.6)s,shorter to that in group without HAT(P＜0.05).Hepatic artery pseudo-aneurysm was also showed in 2 patients with CEUS after liver transplantation.Conclusions CEUS is a useful technique in improving hepatic artery visualization,which contribute to diagnose hepatic artery complications after liver transplantation. Key words: Ultrasonography; Microbuhbles; Liver transplantation; Hepatic artery; Postoperative complications