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World J Gastroenterol. Jan 7, 2011; 17(1): 49-52
Published online Jan 7, 2011. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i1.49
Hybrid ultrasound imaging techniques (fusion imaging)
Daniela Larisa Sandulescu, Daniela Dumitrescu, Ion Rogoveanu, Adrian Saftoiu
Daniela Larisa Sandulescu, Daniela Dumitrescu, Ion Rogoveanu, Adrian Saftoiu, Research Center of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Craiova, Craiova 200638, Romania
Author contributions: Sandulescu DL drafted the manuscript; Rogoveanu I and Dumitrescu D gathered the data; Saftoiu A reviewed and edited the manuscript.
Supported by Research Grant No. 570/2008, Entitled “Integrative Prediction Model of Malignant Transformation of Regeneration Lesions in Cirrhotic Liver Using Noninvasive Imaging Techniques, Immunohistochemical and Molecular Genetic Methods” Financed by the Romanian Ministry of Education and Research-National Authority for Scientific Research (PN2-ID-PCE)
Correspondence to: Daniela Larisa Sandulescu, MD, Research Center of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Craiova, Petru Rares Street, No. 2, Craiova 200638, Dolj, Romania. larisasandulescu@yahoo.com
Telephone: +40-251-522458 Fax: +40-251-593077
Received: July 2, 2010
Revised: September 29, 2010
Accepted: October 6, 2010
Published online: January 7, 2011
Abstract

Visualization of tumor angiogenesis can facilitate non-invasive evaluation of tumor vascular characteristics to supplement the conventional diagnostic imaging goals of depicting tumor location, size, and morphology. Hybrid imaging techniques combine anatomic [ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)] and molecular (single photon emission CT and positron emission tomography) imaging modalities. One example is real-time virtual sonography, which combines ultrasound (grayscale, colour Doppler, or dynamic contrast harmonic imaging) with contrast-enhanced CT/MRI. The benefits of fusion imaging include an increased diagnostic confidence, direct comparison of the lesions using different imaging modalities, more precise monitoring of interventional procedures, and reduced radiation exposure.

Keywords: Hybrid imaging; Real time virtual sonography; Angiogenesis; Focal liver lesions