Abstract. Previous studies have established the feasibility of monitoring radiofrequency (RF) ablation procedures with acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging. However, questions remained regarding the utility of the technique in clinically realistic scenarios and at scanning depths associated with abdominal imaging in adults. We address several of these issues and detail recent progress towards the clinical relevance of the ARFI technique. Results from in vitro bovine tissues and an in vivo ovine model are presented. Additional experiments were conducted with a tissue-mimicking phantom and parallel receive tracking techniques in order to further support the clinical feasibility of the method. Thermal lesions created during RF ablation are visualized with high contrast in both in vitro and in vivo hepatic tissues, and radial lesion growth can be monitored throughout the duration of the procedure. ARFI imaging is implemented on a diagnostic ultrasonic scanner, and thus may be a convenient option to guide RF ablation procedures, particularly when electrode insertion is also performed with sonographic guidance.

Print publication: Issue 15 (7 August 2006)
Received 18 April 2006, in final form 30 May 2006
Published 20 July 2006