Clarity through Contrast: A CEUS Primer for Interventional Radiologists

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

11-12-2025

Publication Title

Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol

Keywords

contrast medium, adult, bleeding, blood clotting, blood flow, clinical observation, conference abstract, contrast enhancement, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, cor pulmonale, diagnosis, diagnostic accuracy, human, interventional radiologist, interventional radiology, intravenous drug administration, microbubble, necrosis, needle, needle biopsy, percutaneous biopsy, radiologist, therapy, vascularization

Abstract

Learning objectives: Upon reviewing this educational exhibit, the learner will be able to summarize the techniques, applications and challenges associated with contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Background: CEUS is an advanced imaging technique that uses microbubbles to enhance visibility of blood flow and tissue characteristics during percutaneous biopsies. This method is particularly valuable in interventional radiology for targeting lesions that are difficult to see with conventional ultrasound, such as those with necrosis or low vascularity. Research suggests it can improve diagnostic accuracy by helping radiologists avoid non-viable tissue and major vessels. Clinical findings/procedure details: CEUS-guided percutaneous biopsies involve several key steps including patient preparation, contrast administration, real time guidance and procedure execution. Patients are screened for contraindications, such as severe cardiopulmonary conditions or contrast agents allergies. Coagulation status is assessed to minimize bleeding risks. A microbubble contrast agent is injected intravenously, enhancing visibility of vascular structures and lesion characteristics. Using modern ultrasound devices, radiologists view both CEUS and Bmode images on a single monitor, enabling precise needle placement. Core needle biopsies are performed under real-time guidance, with the ability to adjust based on contrast enhancement patterns, reducing the risk of sampling non-diagnostic areas. Conclusion: Research suggests CEUS improves accuracy in percutaneous biopsies, especially for tumors with necrosis or poor visibility on standard ultrasound. CEUS helps target viable tissue, reducing complications like vessel damage, but challenges include cost and patient contraindications. The evidence leans toward CEUS being particularly useful for liver/abdominal lesions, with ongoing debate about its routine use versus conventional methods.

Volume

48

Issue

4

First Page

S656

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