Dear AuntMinnie Member,
Ultrasound continues to play a vital role in precision medicine, whether as a frontline or supplemental imaging option. This is especially true as researchers continue to explore noninvasive options to diagnose a variety of diseases and conditions.
In breast imaging, for example, researchers have developed an ultrasound-based approach called quantitative high-definition microvasculature imaging (qHDMI) to differentiate between benign and malignant imaging findings. This could help more women avoid breast biopsies. Find out more about this technique in this edition’s featured story.
Recent studies in breast imaging have also shown the diagnostic significance of echogenic rinds surrounding suspicious breast masses and how ultrasonic features of nonmass breast lesions differ across clinical indications.
In other ultrasound news, researchers continue to beat the drum for the clinical utility of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Experts from the International Contrast Ultrasound Society (ICUS), the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine spoke with AuntMinnie about the current state of CEUS and the modality’s advantages.
Speaking of ICUS, the society held its annual International Bubble Conference in Chicago in September, where researchers presented evidence of CEUS’ clinical promise. These included studies on microbubbles improving tumor response rates in liver cancer patients and how CEUS users mostly agree that the modality helps streamline hospital workflows.
Recent studies have also highlighted the use of echocardiography in diagnosing heart conditions. These studies showed how anabolic steroid use negatively impacts heart health among athletes and how intracardiac echocardiography is effective in preventing thromboembolic complications from atrial fibrillation ablation procedures.
Other reports have evaluated ultrasound from a practice management standpoint. A study based in the Netherlands found that omitting physical exams before ultrasound exams does not affect diagnostic outcomes. Another study found that while ultrasound scanners themselves do not leave a large carbon footprint, disposable supplies and linens used during ultrasound exams contribute to total greenhouse gas emissions.
Finally, in the interventional radiology space, one study out of Turkey added evidence to the literature that ultrasound-guided microwave ablation is safe and effective for treating thyroid nodules.
Did we miss anything? Do you have any new research that could be great for our readers? Feel free to drop us a line! In the meantime, continue checking out our latest imaging coverage in AuntMinnie’s Ultrasound content area.
Amerigo Allegretto
Associate Editor
AuntMinnie.com
