Blunt abdominal trauma: role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the detection and staging of abdominal traumatic lesions compared to US and CE-MDCT. Radiol Med. 2015;120:180-189. [PMID: 24961341 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-014-0425-9]

Point of Care Abdominal Ultrasound

Abdominal pain is a common emergency department complaint, and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) of the abdomen is increasingly being utilized to evaluate clinical manifestations. It aids in accurate diagnoses and assists in procedures, particularly in emergency and critical care settings. Imaging is often required to confirm the etiology of abdominal pain. POCUS provides the benefit of avoiding radiation exposure and enables quicker diagnosis compared to computed tomography scans. There is growing evidence of the diagnostic accuracy for numerous abdominal POCUS applications, including appendicitis, intussusception, diverticulitis, gastric ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound.

Traumatic segmental renal infarction due to renal apical artery thrombosis by minor blunt abdominal trauma: the role of CEUS

Post-traumatic segmental renal infarction is an extremely rare event, especially in case of minor blunt abdominal trauma. While major trauma guidelines are well established, several problems account for the adequate management of minor trauma. Herein, we report a case of minor blunt abdominal trauma determining traumatic thrombosis of the apical renal artery and segmental renal infarction, firstly diagnosed by CEUS in emergency care setting.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the follow-up of abdominal solid organ trauma: an international survey prior to the PseAn study

BACKGROUND

The blunt and penetrating abdominal trauma follow-up relies on contrast CT scan to detect solid organ injuries. CEUS is not widely used worldwide, despite its accuracy and feasibility in identifying parenchymal and vascular lesions. This survey aims to define the current use of CEUS in Trauma Centers and the expectations of Emergency Surgeons regarding its role.

METHODS

We sent an online questionnaire composed of 10 questions to trauma physicians worldwide during the period of September 2022 to March 2023.

RESULTS

59 participants from 53 different centers answered the questionnaire. 76.2% of the enrolled participants have CEUS available at their Institution, and 49.2% think that it can replace CT scan. Contrast-CT scan remains the preferred option in the follow-up of blunt liver (69.5%), spleen (72.9%) and kidney (76.3%) injuries, followed by CEUS which is used in 18.6% for liver, 20.3% for spleen and 15.3% for kidney injuries. The results are similar for penetrating abdominal trauma, with contrast CT scan being the first-line imaging technique (91.5% for liver, 91.5% for spleen and 88.1% for kidney injuries), followed by CEUS (5.1% for liver, 5.1% for spleen and 6.8% for kidney injuries).

CONCLUSIONS

Our survey shows that CEUS is still underutilized in the follow-up of abdominal trauma, even though many emergency surgeons consider it as a valid alternative to contrast CT scan.

The value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in vascular injury from blunt abdominal trauma in solid organs: Comparison with multidetector computed tomography using angiography as the reference standard

To evaluate the accuracy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for assessing vascular injury from blunt abdominal trauma in solid organs using angiography as the reference standard and to compare it with contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography (MDCT). Forty-nine patients with 52 blunt abdominal trauma lesions who underwent CEUS, MDCT, and angiography were enrolled in this retrospective study. Injuries included the liver (n = 23), kidney (n = 10), and spleen (n = 19). Vascular injury in solid organs was classified into 3 types: isolated pseudoaneurysm, pseudoaneurysm with low-velocity extravasation, and active bleeding. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy of CEUS and MDCT for the detection and classification of vascular injury in solid organs were calculated based on angiography. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of each test was performed and compared. Thirty-nine vascular injuries in solid organs were detected and classified into 9 isolated pseudoaneurysms, 9 pseudoaneurysms with low-velocity extravasation, and 21 active bleeding based on angiography as the reference standard. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy for bleeding detection were 97.44%, 100.00%, 100.00%, 92.86%, and 98.08%, respectively, for CEUS and MDCT. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of classification (isolated pseudoaneurysm vs. pseudoaneurysm with low-velocity extravasation or active bleeding) of bleeding were 96.67%, 87.50%, 96.67%, 87.50%, and 94.74%, respectively, for CEUS and 100.00%, 75.00%, 93.75%, 100.00%, and 94.74%, respectively, for MDCT. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves of CEUS and MDCT for bleeding detection was 0.987, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for CEUS and MDCT bleeding classification were 0.921 and 0.875, respectively. CEUS and MDCT exhibited comparable consistency with angiography for detecting and classifying vascular injury from blunt abdominal trauma in solid organs. Therefore, CEUS may be an accurate and rapid imaging tool to detect bleeding and determine the need for transcatheter arterial embolization. We suggest that CEUS could be considered a first-line approach during the preparation time before MDCT to determine the appropriate management for blunt abdominal trauma.

Management of pediatric blunt abdominal trauma with split liver or spleen injuries: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Blunt abdominal trauma is a prevailing cause of pediatric morbidity and mortality. It constitutes the most frequent type of pediatric injuries. Contrast-enhanced sonography (CEUS) and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) are considered pivotal diagnostic modalities in hemodynamically stable patients.

AIM

To report the experience in management of pediatric split liver and spleen injuries using CEUS and CECT.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study included 246 children who sustained blunt abdominal trauma, and admitted and treated at three tertiary hospitals in the period of 5 years. Primary resuscitation was offered to all children based on the advanced trauma and life support (ATLS) protocol. A special algorithm for decision-making was followed. It incorporated the FAST, baseline ultrasound (US), CEUS, and CECT. Patients were treated according to the imaging findings and hemodynamic stability.

RESULTS

All 246 children who sustained a blunt abdominal were studied. Patients' age was 10.5 ± 2.1. Road traffic accidents were the most common cause of trauma; 155 patients (63%). CECT showed the extent of injury in 153 patients' spleen (62%) and 78 patients' liver (32%), while the remaining 15 (6%) patients had both injuries. CEUS detected 142 (57.7%) spleen injury, and 67 (27.2%) liver injury.

CONCLUSIONS

CEUS may be a useful diagnostic tool among hemodynamically stable children who sustained low-to-moderate energy isolated blunt abdominal trauma. It may be also helpful for further evaluation of uncertain CECT findings and follow-up of conservatively managed traumatic injuries.

Is it time to re-think FAST? A systematic review and meta-analysis of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) and conventional ultrasound for initial assessment of abdominal trauma

BACKGROUND

The Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) examination using conventional ultrasound has limited utility for detecting solid organ injury. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis compares the performance of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to conventional ultrasound when used as the initial assessment for abdominal trauma prior to computed tomography (CT) imaging.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of major databases was conducted of human studies investigating the diagnostic accuracy of conventional ultrasound and CEUS occurring prior to CT imaging for abdominal trauma. The study followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement. The quality of studies was evaluated using the QUADAS-2 (Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2) tool. Paired pooled sensitivity and specificity between conventional ultrasound and CEUS were compared using data extracted from the eligible studies. Diagnostic odds ratio, number needed to diagnose values, and likelihood ratios were also determined.

RESULTS

Ten studies were included. More than half of the included studies demonstrated low risk of bias. Using McNemar's test to assess for paired binary observations, we found that CEUS had statistically higher sensitivity (0.933 vs. 0.559; two-tailed, P < 0.001) and specificity (0.995 vs. 0.979; two-tailed, P < 0.001) than conventional ultrasound in the setting of abdominal trauma, respectively. When divided into particular findings of clinical interest, CEUS had statistically higher sensitivity than conventional ultrasound in screening for active bleeding and injuries to all abdominal solid organs. CEUS also had superior diagnostic odds ratios, number needed to diagnose values, and likelihood ratios than conventional ultrasound.

CONCLUSION

The diagnostic value of CEUS was higher than that of conventional ultrasound for differentiating traumatic abdominal injuries when used as the initial assessment in the emergency department.

Application of Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma in the Intensive Care Unit

The Extended-Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (E-FAST) allows clinicians to rapidly diagnose traumatic thoracoabdominal injuries at the bedside without ionizing radiation. It has high specificity and is extremely useful as an initial test to rule in dangerous diagnoses such as hemoperitoneum, pericardial effusion, hemothorax, and pneumothorax. Its moderate sensitivity means that it should not be used alone as a tool to rule out dangerous thoracoabdominal injuries. In patients with a concerning mechanism or presentation, additional imaging should be obtained despite a negative FAST examination.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of the kidneys: principles and potential applications

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an extension and an enhanced form of ultrasound that allows real-time evaluation of the various structures in different vascular phases. The last decade has witnessed a widespread expansion of CEUS applications beyond the liver. It has shown fair potential in kidneys and its diagnostic efficacy is comparable to CT and MRI. Ultrasound is the well-accepted screening modality for renal pathologies, however, it underperforms in the characterization of the renal masses. CEUS can be beneficial in such cases as it can help in the characterization of such incidental masses in the same sitting. It has an excellent safety profile with no risk of radiation or contract-related nephropathy. It can aid in the correct categorization of renal cysts into one of the Bosniak classes and has proven its worth especially in complex cysts or indeterminate renal masses (especially Bosniak Category IIF and III). Few studies also describe its potential role in solid masses and in differentiating benign from malignant masses. Other areas of interest include infections, infarctions, trauma, follow-up of local ablative procedures, and VUR. Through this review, the readers shall get an insight into the various applications of CEUS in kidneys, with imaging examples.

The Technique and Advantages of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in the Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Traumatic Abdomen Solid Organ Injuries

Trauma is one of the most common causes of death or permanent disability in young people, so a timely diagnostic approach is crucial. In polytrauma patients, CEUS (contrast enhanced ultrasound) has been shown to be more sensitive than US (ultrasound) for the detection of solid organ injuries, improving the identification and grading of traumatic abdominal lesions with levels of sensitivity and specificity similar to those seen with MDCT (multidetector tomography). CEUS is recommended for the diagnostic evaluation of hemodynamically stable patients with isolated blunt moderate-energy abdominal traumas and the diagnostic follow-up of conservatively managed abdominal traumas. In this pictorial review, we illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of CEUS and the procedure details with tips and tricks during the investigation of blunt moderate-energy abdominal trauma as well as during follow-up in non-operative management.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of blunt abdominal trauma in children

Trauma is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children, and rapid identification of organ injury is essential for successful treatment. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an appealing alternative to contrast-enhanced CT in the evaluation of children with blunt abdominal trauma, mainly with respect to the potential reduction of population-level exposure to ionizing radiation. This is particularly important in children, who are more vulnerable to the hazards of ionizing radiation than adults. CEUS is useful in hemodynamically stable children with isolated blunt low- to moderate-energy abdominal trauma to rule out solid organ injuries. It can also be used to further evaluate uncertain contrast-enhanced CT findings, as well as in the follow-up of conservatively managed traumatic injuries. CEUS can be used to detect abnormalities that are not apparent by conventional US, including infarcts, pseudoaneurysms and active bleeding. In this article we present the current experience from the use of CEUS for the evaluation of pediatric blunt abdominal trauma, emphasizing the examination technique and interpretation of major abnormalities associated with injuries in the liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, pancreas and testes. We also discuss the limitations of the technique and offer a review of the major literature on this topic in children, including an extrapolation of experience from adults.

Role of CEUS in Vascular Pathology

In recent years, the implementation of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in clinical practice has opened new horizons in the arterial pathologies research field, since this technique is able to supply new sets of data that can be crucial in patient management. The main applications of CEUS in the arterial system are the detection, characterization, and follow-up of carotid plaques and endoleaks after EVAR. Other situations in which CEUS was demonstrated to be a useful tool are large vessel vasculitis, dissections, and untreated aneurysms. In carotid atherosclerosis CEUS is not only able to acquire quantitative data about stenosis but also to perform a qualitative assessment of the plaque. The most important plaque features that CEUS is able to depict are ulceration, neovascularization, and the presence of inflammatory infiltrates. All of these factors contribute to plaque vulnerability. Thus, CEUS is crucial in order to allow better risk stratification and management of patients. In follow-up after EVAR, CEUS shows sensitivity and specificity values similar to CTA while ensuring several advantages, such as lower cost and the absence of ionizing radiation and nephrotoxic agents. Moreover, CEUS is able to offer real-time evaluation of endoleaks and thus is a useful tool in cases that are ambiguous on CTA. Most limitations are patient-related and are the same as in all other ultrasound techniques, such as high BMI and meteorism.

Management for traumatic hepatic injury diagnosed by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in a patient with an occluded coeliac axis: a case report

Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) is the standard of care for haemodynamically-stable patients with blunt hepatic injury but it is sometimes impossible due to unfavourable vascular anatomies. This case report describes a 43-year-old male patient with abdominal pain following a motorcycle accident. Based on computed tomography (CT) findings, he was diagnosed with high-grade hepatic injury with coeliac axis stenosis (CAS) due to compression by the median arcuate ligament, and an aberrant right hepatic artery. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) demonstrated multiple high echogenic tubular and ovoid structures suggestive of active bleeding within the injured liver area. Angiography revealed unique interlobar and intrahepatic collateral vessels between the right and left hepatic arteries. Liver haemorrhages were also identified. Catheterization of the feeding arteries through the collateral pathway was unsuccessful, so a decision was made to cannulate the stenotic portion of the coeliac trunk with a 5-Fr Yashiro catheter. After several attempts, the microcatheter was successfully advanced coaxially into the common hepatic artery. Embolization was performed with a 1:2 mixture of N-butyl cyanoacrylate and iodized oil. Successful haemostasis was confirmed following TAE. CEUS helped clinicians identify active bleeding following traumatic solid organ injury. TAE was a safe and effective treatment strategy. Before performing TAE, attention should be given to the presence of CAS associated with compression by the median arcuate ligament.

Local ablation of pancreatic tumors: State of the art and future perspectives

BACKGROUND

Currently, the technologies most commonly used to treat locally advanced pancreatic cancer are radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation, and irreversible (IRE) or reversible electroporation combined with low doses of chemotherapeutic drugs.

AIM

To report an overview and updates on ablative techniques in pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

Several electronic databases were searched. The search covered the years from January 2000 to January 2021. Moreover, the reference lists of the found papers were analysed for papers not indexed in the electronic databases. All titles and abstracts were analysed.

RESULTS

We found 30 studies (14 studies for RFA, 3 for microwave therapy, 10 for IRE, and 3 for electrochemotherapy), comprising 1047 patients, which were analysed further. Two randomized trials were found for IRE. Percutaneous and laparotomy approaches were performed. In the assessed patients, the median maximal diameter of the lesions was in the range of 2.8 to 4.5 cm. All series included patients unfit for surgical treatment, but Martin et al assessed a subgroup of patients with borderline resectable tumours who underwent resection with margin attenuation with IRE. Most studies administered chemotherapy prior to ablative therapies. However, several studies suggest that the key determinant of improved survival is attributable to ablative treatment alone. Nevertheless, the authors suggested chemotherapy before local therapies for several reasons. This strategy may not only downstage a subgroup of patients to curative-intent surgery but also support to recognize patients with biologically unfavourable tumours who would likely not benefit from ablation treatments. Ablation therapies seem safe based on the 1047 patients assessed in this review. The mortality rate ranged from 1.8% to 2%. However, despite the low mortality, the reported rates of severe post procedural complications ranged from 0%-42%. Most reported complications have been self-limiting and manageable. Median overall survival varied between 6.0 and 33 mo. Regarding the technical success rate, assessed papers reported an estimated rate in the range of 85% to 100%. However, the authors reported early recurrence after treatment. A distinct consideration should be made on whether local treatments induce an immune response in the ablated area. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that RFA is a promising mechanism for inducing antigen-presenting cell infiltration and enhancing the systemic antitumour T-cell immune response and tumour regression.

CONCLUSION

In the management of patients with pancreatic cancer, the possibility of a multimodal approach should be considered, and conceptually, the combination of RFA with immunotherapy represents a novel angle of attack against this tumour.

Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) in Non-Traumatic Abdominal Emergencies

Conventional ultrasound imaging (US) is the first-line investigation in acute non-traumatic abdominal emergencies, but sometimes it needs further examinations, such as computed tomography (CT), to reach a certain diagnosis. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), through injection of contrast medium, may provide the radiologist with additional information that could not be investigated with baseline US. It could help reach a diagnosis and rapidly determine the proper therapy in an emergency setting. The purpose of this review is to explain and illustrate the various possibilities and limitations of CEUS in acute non-traumatic abdominal diseases, in particular acute inflammation, parenchymal infarcts, and hemorrhages.

Conventional Ultrasound and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Splenic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Accurate diagnosis of splenic diseases is important for timely and accurate treatment. The objective of this study was to compare the accuracy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and conventional ultrasound (US) in detecting splenic lesions. A systematic literature search was undertaken, and 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. The sensitivity and specificity of the consolidated results of CEUS were 0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.92-0.97) and 0.97 (95% CI, 0.90-0.99), respectively (I² = 27.4%; area under the curve [AUC] from a summary receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.97). The sensitivity and specificity of the consolidated results of conventional US were 0.70 (95% CI, 0.56-0.80) and 0.96 (95% CI, 0.76-0.99; I² = 83.4%; AUC = 0.84). In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the sensitivity and specificity of CEUS were higher than those of conventional US in diagnosing splenic lesions. Contrast-enhanced US is a promising method for accurately diagnosing splenic lesions.

Review of Multimodality Imaging of Renal Trauma

Blunt trauma accounts for more than 95% of traumatic renal injury and results from shear forces from rapid acceleration or deceleration and/or collision against the spine or ribs. The use of multiphasic contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) has proven pivotal in the evaluation and management of traumatic kidney injury, and CT imaging features provide the basis for nonsurgical staging. This article describes the epidemiology and mechanisms of blunt and penetrating traumatic renal injury and reviews the range of findings from various imaging modalities, with a particular emphasis on contrast-enhanced CT.

Diagnostic options for blunt abdominal trauma

PURPOSE

Physical examination, laboratory tests, ultrasound, conventional radiography, multislice computed tomography (MSCT), and diagnostic laparoscopy are used for diagnosing blunt abdominal trauma. In this article, we investigate and evaluate the usefulness and limitations of various diagnostic modalities on the basis of a comprehensive review of the literature.

METHODS

We searched commonly used databases in order to obtain information about the aforementioned diagnostic modalities. Relevant articles were included in the literature review. On the basis of the results of our comprehensive analysis of the literature and a current case, we offer a diagnostic algorithm.

RESULTS

A total of 86 studies were included in the review. Ecchymosis of the abdominal wall (seat belt sign) is a clinical sign that has a high predictive value. Laboratory values such as those for haematocrit, haemoglobin, base excess or deficit, and international normalised ratio (INR) are prognostic parameters that are useful in guiding therapy. Extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (eFAST) has become a well established component of the trauma room algorithm but is of limited usefulness in the diagnosis of blunt abdominal trauma. Compared with all other diagnostic modalities, MSCT has the highest sensitivity and specificity. Diagnostic laparoscopy is an invasive technique that may also serve as a therapeutic tool and is particularly suited for haemodynamically stable patients with suspected hollow viscus injuries.

CONCLUSIONS

MSCT is the gold standard diagnostic modality for blunt abdominal trauma because of its high sensitivity and specificity in detecting relevant intra-abdominal injuries. In many cases, however, clinical, laboratory and imaging findings must be interpreted jointly for an adequate evaluation of a patient's injuries and for treatment planning since these data supplement and complement one another. Patients with blunt abdominal trauma should be admitted for clinical observation over a minimum period of 24 h since there is no investigation that can reliably rule out intra-abdominal injuries.

European Society of Paediatric Radiology abdominal imaging task force: recommendations for contrast-enhanced ultrasound and diffusion-weighted imaging in focal renal lesions in children

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) are safe, repeatable imaging techniques. The aim of this paper is to discuss the advantages, technical factors and possible clinical applications of these imaging tools in focal renal lesions in children.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) in the follow-up of pediatric abdominal injuries: value and timing

AIMS

Primary aim was to investigate the value and safety of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) during follow-up (FU) of splenic, hepatic and renal post-traumatic injuries in a pediatric population. Secondary aim was to extrapolate appropriate timing of FU-CEUS.

METHODS

In a retrospective study, post-traumatic parenchymal injuries diagnosed with CT or CEUS, were subjected to non-operative management and followed with CEUS.

RESULTS

Forty-six patients were enrolled, with isolated or combined injuries, for a total of 30 splenic, 15 hepatic and 12 renal injuries. At admission 42/46 patients underwent CT and 4/46 underwent CEUS. During FU a total of 65 CEUS were performed: 16 within 72 h to check delayed active bleeding or parenchymal rupture; 24 between 5 and 10 days post admission, to pose indication to active mobilization or to discharge; 21 between 20 and 60 days post admission to document complete healing of the lesion or pose indication to discharge in most severe injuries. No complications related to CEUS were encountered.

CONCLUSIONS

CEUS is valuable and safe to follow patients with post-traumatic abdominal injuries, even if further data are needed for renal injuries. We propose a tailored approach based on injury grade and clinical course: in the first 3 days only in case of delayed bleeding or rupture suspect; between 5 and 10 days post trauma to ensure a safe active mobilization and/or pose indication to discharge, and over 20-30 days post trauma to pose indication to discharge in most severe injuries or document complete healing and permit return to sport activities.

Kidney and uro-trauma: WSES-AAST guidelines

Renal and urogenital injuries occur in approximately 10-20% of abdominal trauma in adults and children. Optimal management should take into consideration the anatomic injury, the hemodynamic status, and the associated injuries. The management of urogenital trauma aims to restore homeostasis and normal physiology especially in pediatric patients where non-operative management is considered the gold standard. As with all traumatic conditions, the management of urogenital trauma should be multidisciplinary including urologists, interventional radiologists, and trauma surgeons, as well as emergency and ICU physicians. The aim of this paper is to present the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) and the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) kidney and urogenital trauma management guidelines.

Clinical use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound beyond the liver: a focus on renal, splenic, and pancreatic applications

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a relatively novel, but increasingly used, diagnostic imaging modality. In recent years, due to its safety, quickness, and repeatability, several studies have demonstrated the accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of CEUS. The European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology has recently updated the previous guidelines from 2012 for the use of CEUS in non-hepatic applications. This review deals with the clinical use and applications of CEUS for the evaluation of non-hepatic abdominal organs, focusing on renal, splenic, and pancreatic applications.

Professional practice assessment: establishment of an institutional procedure to treat blunt abdominal trauma in emergency pediatric department

OBJECTIVE

The clinical process for the diagnosis of intra-abdominal lesion due to blunt abdominal trauma in children is not consistent. The goal of the present study was to assess the efficiency of our institutional procedure to manage hemodynamically stable pediatric patients with benign abdominal trauma and to select patients who need a radiological examination in an emergency pediatric department.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a prospective cohort study from June 2008 to June 2010 in a pediatric emergency department. Pediatric patients with benign abdominal trauma and with stable hemodynamic parameters were included in the study. We conducted first clinical examination and clinical laboratory assessment for blood count, platelet count, hematocrit, serum glutamo-oxalacétique transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), lipase and urine. A second clinical examination was performed 2 h later. Patients with biological abnormalities and/or with persistent pain underwent a computerized tomography (CT) of the abdomen. Our main criterion for judging was the presence of intra-abdominal lesion as revealed by the scan, which was considered as the gold standard. At the second clinical examination, patients without pain and with normal results for clinical laboratory assessment were sent home. A telephone call was made to the children 48 h after the visit to the hospital emergency department. The secondary criterion for judging was the absence of complication in children who did not undergo the scan.

RESULTS

A total of 111 children were included. Seventy-five children underwent the complete procedure. Thirty-four scans were performed. The scan revealed that 22 patients had an intra-abdominal lesion. Multivariate analysis indicated that SGOT higher than 34 IU/L and the persistence of pain for more than 2 h from the initial evaluation of trauma favored the development of intra-abdominal lesion. On the basis of these two criteria, we developed a predictive diagnostic score for post-traumatic intra-abdominal injuries with a high negative predictive value. For children who were sent home without a radiological examination, no complications were observed at 48 h after the visit to the emergency department.

CONCLUSION

The present protocol is a good approach to identify children at risk for intra-abdominal lesion who need a radiological examination and those who do not require any complementary examinations. The predictive diagnostic score could help young hospital doctors to assess blunt abdominal trauma.

A rare case of non-traumatic intrasplenic pseudoaneurysms in a patient with acute T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia

Pseudoaneurysm (PSA) or false aneurysm is a vascular lesion resulting from a focal and incomplete rupture of the arterial wall (intimate and/or elastic lamina), that allows blood to escape into the arterial wall; this small contained break causes a contained collection of blood and the creation of a "new" less resistant vessel wall, consisting of adventitia and perivascular tissues. Intrasplenic pseudoaneurysms are rare and more frequently recognize traumatic origin, sometimes are also unexpected lesions due to non-recent trauma. In contrast, non-traumatic intrasplenic pseudoaneurysms are rare complications usually due to splenic infarction, infiltration by malignant systemic disorders, infectious process, chronic pancreatitis, and arteritis. Both traumatic and non-traumatic PSA are potentially life threatening, known to cause spontaneous rupture of the spleen with massive hemoperitoneum. Contrast-enhanced CT is the gold standard technique to detect splenic PSA; however, it is important to know how to recognize it also with other imaging methods such as with ultrasound (US) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). US and CEUS can be often the first-line diagnostic techniques and allow to detect these lesions; they are also very useful in the follow-up. Our case report can be a reminder of the utility of the US and CEUS in detecting splenic pseudoaneurysms, which are potentially a life-threatening complication; we also recall the semiotics of these lesions with baseline ultrasound (US), color Doppler US and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Then, we highlight the role of contrast-enhanced CT in confirming the diagnosis and we report about the diagnostic and therapeutic value of angiography. We have to think about the possibility of a pseudoaneurysm even in the absence of a recent trauma, associated with other conditions such as a lymphoproliferative disease.

Clinical value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in radiofrequency ablation for primary hepatocellular carcinoma undetectable by conventional ultrasound

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection is the first choice for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). For patients who have unresectable HCC, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an important choice. RFA is usually guided by imaging methods including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). CT has radiation damage, and MRI is not suitable for some patients (such as those who have pacemaker implantation, vascular stent implantation, or heart valve replacement). Ultrasound as a guidance method has the advantages of non-radiation, simplicity, and flexibility, and has been widely used in clinical practice. It has become an ideal and effective imaging method guiding RFA for liver tumors.

AIM

To investigate the clinical value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in RFA for HCC undetectable by conventional ultrasound.

METHODS

A total of 52 patients with HCC undetectable by conventional ultrasound, but detected by contrast-enhanced MRI (CEMRI) and confirmed by pathology were selected as subjects (with a total of 75 tumors). All patients underwent CEUS and RFA guided by CEUS. CEMRI and CEUS were performed to evaluate the therapeutic effect after operation.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the detection rate between CEUS and CEMRI (P > 0.05). Time to starting enhancement and time to enhancement peak were significantly shorter in HCC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues, but peak intensity was significantly higher in HCC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues before operation (P < 0.05). Regardless of whether HCC was completely ablated or not, there was no significant difference in the accuracy rate between CEUS and CEMRI (P > 0.05). Serum alpha fetoprotein after operation was significantly lower than that before operation (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

CEUS can effectively detect and accurately locate HCC undetectable by conventional ultrasound and guide RFA, thus providing a reliable imaging method for evaluating RFA efficacy.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in pediatric blunt abdominal trauma

Baseline ultrasound is the first-choice technique in traumatic hemodynamically stable children, and is essential in the early assessment of unstable patients to detect hemoperitoneum or other potentially fatal conditions. Despite the technological advancements in new ultrasound equipment and the experience of the operators, it is not always possible to rule out the presence of parenchymal traumatic lesions by means of baseline ultrasound nor to suspect them, especially in the absence of hemoperitoneum. For this reason, in the last decades, basic ultrasound has been associated with contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to evaluate the stable little patient in cases such as low-energy blunt abdominal trauma. Because it relies on second-generation contrast agents, the CEUS technique allows for better detection of parenchymal injuries. CEUS has been demonstrated to be almost as sensitive as contrast-enhanced CT in the detection of traumatic injuries in patients affected by low-energy isolated abdominal trauma, with levels of sensitivity and specificity up to 95%. A very important point in favor of CEUS is its capacity to help distinguish the healthy patient, who can be discharged, from the one needing prolonged monitoring, operative management or hospitalization. Finally, we also have the ability to follow-up on low-grade traumatic lesions using CEUS, always keeping in mind patients' clinical conditions and their hemodynamics.

A Case of Splenic Laceration Presenting as a Delayed Complication of Colonoscopy

BACKGROUND

Colonoscopy is a frequently performed medical procedure; complications associated with this procedure often present to the emergency department (ED). Splenic laceration is a rare but life-threatening complication of colonoscopy. We report the unique case of a patient with a splenic laceration who presented after a recent colonoscopy and had no history of trauma.

CASE REPORT

A 52-year-old man presented to our ED with abdominal pain and lightheadedness the day after a routine colonoscopy. Ultrasound demonstrated hemoperitoneum, and contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen revealed a large hemoperitoneum with active contrast extravasation from the laceration of the superior pole of the spleen. After resuscitation, the patient was managed with an emergency splenectomy. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Colonoscopy complications are frequently identified and managed in the ED. Splenic laceration should be on the differential for patients that present with abdominal pain or hypotension after colonoscopy. Splenic injury carries a high mortality risk, and prompt, accurate diagnosis can be lifesaving.

Role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the diagnosis and management of traumatic splenic injuries

Splenic injuries are common emergencies in the setting of abdominal trauma, as the spleen is the second most frequently injured abdominal organ after the liver. The treatment of splenic injuries underwent a severe shift from operative to non-operative due to an increased awareness of the double physiological function, both immunological and hematological, of the spleen. This, in turn, led to an increased application of splenic preservation techniques. The non-operative approach has been strengthened through radiological imaging and interventional radiology. While multidetector computed tomography is mandatory in the evaluation of hemodynamically stable patients after high-energy trauma, one ultrasound (US) can be used as a first-line technique to examine patients in cases of low-energy trauma. Unfortunately, baseline US has low sensitivity in the detection of traumatic injuries. With the introduction of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) as a reliable alternative to baseline ultrasound for low-grade abdominal trauma, the sensitivity of the US technique in recognizing traumatic abdominal lesions has strongly increased, reaching levels of accuracy similar to those of the CT. It has also been strongly recommended for use with children, as it allows for the performance of imaging techniques with the lowest dose of radiation possible. In this review, the authors aim to present the typical appearance of traumatic splenic injuries, using enhanced CEUS capability to overcome baseline US limits, and to describe the different techniques applied according to the hemodynamic stability of the patient.

Establishment and evaluation of a Beagle model of grade III pancreatic trauma

Pancreatic trauma (PT) is a severe abdominal injury that is often combined with multiple organ injury. It is a severe disease that is difficult to diagnose and has a high mortality rate, particularly for grade III PT. The pathogenesis, disease progress and complications have not been fully investigated due to the lack of a reliable animal model. To address this, a Beagle model of grade III PT was established in the present study using a procedure involving rupture of the main pancreatic duct. Peripancreatic effusions and the degree of pancreatic damage were examined by routine ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Also, ascites were collected for the examination of amylase and lipase levels, and whole blood samples were collected for the analysis of amylase, lipase, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels in the serum. Urine samples were also collected for the examination of trypsinogen activation peptide (TAP). In addition, the pancreas was sectioned and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. In comparison with routine ultrasound, CEUS showed a large area of focal trauma, with a depth greater than half of the anteroposterior diameter of the pancreas, with a clear boundary, clear capsular rupture and trauma induced by active bleeding. The volume of ascites peaked at 48 h post-trauma and decreased thereafter. Amylase and lipase levels in the ascites were elevated at 24 h post-trauma and significantly decreased at 48 and 72 h post-trauma (P<0.01). In addition, serum amylase and lipase levels increased to peak levels at 48 h post-trauma and then decreased (P<0.05), while serum CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α levels peaked at 24 h post-trauma and then decreased (P<0.05). Urinary TAP levels also peaked at 24 h post-trauma and subsequently decreased (P<0.05). At 72 h post-trauma, the pancreatic cells were loosely distributed, with damaged acini, hyperchromatic nuclei and severe inflammatory cell invasion. These results indicated that the Beagle model of grade III PT was satisfactorily established, and that CEUS is potentially useful as an auxiliary diagnosis method for PT. This animal model may be useful for studying the pathogenesis, disease progress and complications of PT.

Deuxième niveau de compétence pour l’échographie clinique en médecine d’urgence. Recommandations de la Société française de médecine d’urgence par consensus formalisé

La Société française de médecine d’urgence a élaboré en 2016 des recommandations formalisées d’experts définissant le premier niveau de compétence en échographie clinique en médecine d’urgence. Ce niveau est maintenant complété par un deuxième niveau correspondant à une pratique plus avancée utilisant des techniques non envisagées dans le premier niveau comme l’utilisation du Doppler et nécessitant aussi une pratique et une formation plus poussées. Des champs déjà présents dans le premier référentiel sont complétés, et de nouveaux champs sont envisagés. La méthodologie utilisée est issue de la méthode « Recommandations par consensus formalisé » publiée par la Haute Autorité de santé et de la méthode Delphi pour quantifier l’accord professionnel. Ce choix a été fait devant l’insuffisance de littérature de fort niveau de preuve dans certaines thématiques et de l’existence de controverses. Ce document présente les items jugés appropriés et inappropriés par les cotateurs. Ces recommandations définissent un deuxième niveau de compétence en ECMU.

Emergency and critical care applications for contrast-enhanced ultrasound

INTRODUCTION

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) using intravascular microbubbles has potential to revolutionize point-of-care ultrasonography by expanding the use of ultrasonography into clinical scenarios previously reserved for computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging, or angiography.

METHODS

We performed a literature search and report clinical experience to provide an introduction to CEUS and describe its current applications for point-of-care indications.

RESULTS

The uses of CEUS include several applications highly relevant for emergency medicine, such as solid-organ injuries, actively bleeding hematomas, or abdominal aortic aneurysms. Compared with CT as the preeminent advanced imaging modality in the emergency department, CEUS is low cost, radiation sparing, repeatable, and readily available. It does not require sedation, preprocedural laboratory assessment, or transportation to the radiology suite.

CONCLUSIONS

CEUS is a promising imaging technique for point-of-care applications in pediatric and adult patients and can be applied for patients with allergy to CT contrast medium or with impaired renal function. More high-quality CEUS research focusing on accuracy, patient safety, health care costs, and throughput times is needed to validate its use in emergency and critical care settings.

Applications of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the pediatric abdomen

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a radiation-free, safe, and in specific clinical settings, highly sensitive imaging modality. Over the recent decades, there is cumulating experience and a large volume of published safety and efficacy data on pediatric CEUS applications. Many of these applications have been directly translated from adults, while others are unique to the pediatric population. The most frequently reported intravenous abdominal applications of CEUS in children are the characterization of focal liver lesions, monitoring of solid abdominal tumor response to treatment, and the evaluation of intra-abdominal parenchymal injuries in selected cases of blunt abdominal trauma. The intravesical CEUS application, namely contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS), is a well-established, pediatric-specific imaging technique entailing the intravesical administration of ultrasound contrast agents for detection and grading of vesicoureteral reflux. In Europe, all pediatric CEUS applications remain off-label. In 2016, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the most commonly used worldwide second-generation ultrasound contrast SonoVue®/Lumason® for pediatric liver and intravesical applications, giving new impetus to pediatric CEUS worldwide.

Implementation of clinical effectiveness guidelines for solid organ injury after trauma: 10-year experience at a level 1 pediatric trauma center

BACKGROUND

Diagnostic imaging of pediatric blunt abdominal trauma is evolving in light of increased attention to radiation exposure. We hypothesize that the implementation of imaging guidelines has reduced total CT scans without missing clinically significant injury.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed blunt trauma patients age 0-17 with solid organ injury who underwent CT scan at our academic level 1 pediatric trauma center between 2005 and 2014. Variables including total annual trauma admissions and CT scans, demographics, injury characteristics, and procedures were recorded. Descriptive statistics, Fisher exact and rank sum testing were performed. p<0.05 defined significance.

RESULTS

Overall percentage of abdominal CT scans decreased significantly after protocol implementation. There were 498 solid organ injuries in 403 subjects. There was a significant decrease in the median percentage of low grade injuries (1.3% versus 0.6%; p=0.019) but no difference in high grade injuries (1.3% versus 1.1%; p=0.394). No patient had death, readmission or delayed diagnosis of injury requiring intervention.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of imaging guidelines for blunt abdominal trauma decreased the incidence of low grade solid organ injuries at our institution, but did not inhibit diagnosis and safe management of high grade injuries. Selective imaging of trauma patients decreases childhood radiation exposure and does not result in delayed bleeding or death.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective study.

Contrast enhanced ultrasound for the evaluation of blunt pediatric abdominal trauma

INTRODUCTION

Blunt abdominal trauma is a common problem in children. Computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for imaging in pediatric blunt abdominal trauma, however up to 50% of CTs are normal and CT carries a risk of radiation-induced cancer. Contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) may allow accurate detection of abdominal organ injuries while eliminating exposure to ionizing radiation.

METHODS

Children aged 7-18years with a CT-diagnosed abdominal solid organ injury underwent grayscale/power Doppler ultrasound (conventional US) and CEUS within 48h of injury. Two blinded radiologists underwent a brief training in CEUS and then interpreted the CEUS images without patient interaction. Conventional US and CEUS images were compared to CT for the presence of injury and, if present, the injury grade. Patients were monitored for contrast-related adverse reactions.

RESULTS

Twenty one injured organs were identified by CT in eighteen children. Conventional US identified the injuries with a sensitivity of 45.2%, which increased to 85.7% using CEUS. The specificity of conventional US was 96.4% and increased to 98.6% using CEUS. The positive predictive value increased from 79.2% to 94.7% and the negative predictive value from 85.3% to 95.8%. Two patients had injuries that were missed by both radiologists on CEUS. In a 100kg, 17year old female, a grade III liver injury was not seen by either radiologist on CEUS. Her accompanying grade I kidney injury was not seen by one of the radiologist on CEUS. The second patient, a 16year old female, had a grade III splenic injury that was missed by both radiologists on CEUS. She also had an adjacent grade II kidney injury that was seen by both. Injuries, when noted, were graded within 1 grade of CT 33/35 times with CEUS. There were no adverse reactions to the contrast.

CONCLUSION

CEUS is a promising imaging modality that can detect most abdominal solid organ injuries in children while eliminating exposure to ionizing radiation. A multicenter trial is warranted before widespread use can be recommended.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II; Diagnostic Prospective Study.

The Predictive Value of Repeated Abdominal Ultrasonography in Patients with Multiple Trauma and Decreased Level of Consciousness: The Experience of a Resource-Limited Centre

Objective

To determine the predictive value of repeated abdominal ultrasonography in patients with multiple trauma and decreased level of consciousness (LOC).

Methods

This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted over a six-month period at Shahid Rajaee Trauma Hospital, Shiraz, Iran. We included hemodynamically stable blunt abdominal trauma patients with a decreased LOC (Glasgow Coma Scale ≤ 13) who were referred to the neurosurgery ICU ward. Included cases underwent 1 contrast-enhanced CT scan and two-time ultrasonographic study of the abdomen with an interval of 48 hours. The diagnostic accuracy of the ultrasonography was determined according to the CT-scan results.

Results

Overall 80 patients with mean age of 37.75 ± 18.67 years were included. There were 17 (21.3%) women and 63 (78.8%) men among the patients. Compared with the CT-Scan, the first ultrasonography showed a sensitivity of 60%, specificity of 80%, PPV of 16.60%, NPV of 96.80%, and a diagnostic accuracy of 70%. The same values for the second ultrasonographic study were 80%, 79%, 20%, 98%, and 79%, respectively. In 4 (5%) patients whose first ultrasonography and CT scan results were negative, the second ultrasonography was positive for injury.

Conclusion

In patients with blunt trauma to the abdomen, when the only indication of abdominal CT scan is a decreased LOC, two ultrasonographic studies can replace a CT imaging.

Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound of the Liver: Optimizing Technique and Clinical Applications

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this article is to review the general principles, technique, and clinical applications of contrast-enhanced ultrasound of the liver.

CONCLUSION

Proper technique and optimization of contrast-enhanced ultrasound require a balance between maintaining the integrity of the microbubble contrast agent and preserving the ultrasound signal. Established and emerging applications in the liver include diagnosis of focal lesions, aiding ultrasound-guided intervention, monitoring of therapy, and aiding surgical management.

Diagnostic accuracy of contrast enhanced ultrasound in patients with blunt abdominal trauma presenting to the emergency department: a systematic review and meta-analysis

We aimed to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in evaluating blunt abdominal trauma for patients presenting to the emergency department. Electronic search of Scopus and Pubmed was performed from inception to September 2016. Human studies investigating the diagnostic accuracy of CEUS in identifying abdominal solid organ injuries were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the QUADAS tool. A total of 10 studies were included in the study and 9 of them were included for meta-analysis. The log(DOR) values ranged from 3.80 (95% CI: 2.81-4.79) to 8.52 (95% CI: 4.58-12.47) in component studies. The combined log(DOR) was 6.56 (95% CI: 5.66-7.45). The Cochran's Q was 11.265 (p = 0.793 with 16 degrees of freedom), and the Higgins' I² was 0%. The CEUS had a sensitivity of 0.981 (95% CI: 0.868-0.950) and a false positive rate of 0.018 (95% CI: 0.010-0.032) for identifying parenchymal injuries, with an AUC of 0.984. CEUS performed at emergency department had good diagnostic accuracy in identifying abdominal solid organ injuries. CEUS can be recommended in monitoring solid organ injuries, especially for patients managed with non-operative strategy.

Safety of Sulfur Hexafluoride Microbubbles in Sonography of Abdominal and Superficial Organs: Retrospective Analysis of 30,222 Cases

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety of the sulfur hexafluoride microbubble contrast agent SonoVue (Bracco SpA, Milan, Italy) and to implement precautions with the intent of further improving the safety of this contrast agent.

METHODS

A total of 30,222 patients undergoing contrast-enhanced sonography of abdominal and superficial organs in our hospital from January 2005 to December 2014 were retrospectively investigated. SonoVue was used as the ultrasound contrast agent. The symptoms and treatments of adverse reactions occurring during the contrast-enhanced sonographic examinations were reviewed and analyzed.

RESULTS

No patient died as a result of any adverse reaction. Six patients (0.020%) had adverse reactions of varying degrees, including 2 patients (0.007%) who had signs of early anaphylactic shock (chest tightness, palpitations, sweating, and rapid and weak pulse, followed by cyanosis, a disappearing pulse, and a drop in blood pressure) that improved after active rescue. The remaining 4 patients developed the following: redness and a rash on the arm above the injection site, nasal bleeding and nausea, nausea and vomiting, and back pain with numbness of the lips and limbs. Symptoms in these 4 patients self-resolved after a period of rest.

CONCLUSIONS

Contrast-enhanced sonography with sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles had good clinical safety, but rare adverse reactions were observed. A comprehensive emergency plan and rescue measures for adverse reactions should be prepared and made available to minimize the occurrence of negative clinical outcomes.

Imaging of postoperative shoulder instability

Postoperative imaging in shoulder instability is still a challenge for radiologists due to various postsurgical anatomical findings that could be considered pathologic in treated shoulder. For this reason is very important a deep knowledge about surgical procedures, anatomical changes after surgery and the appropriate diagnostic imaging modalities to work up the symptomatic postoperative shoulder. Postoperative imaging options include use conventional radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), MRI arthrography, computed tomography (CT) and CT arthrography. The purpose of our review is to explain the different surgical procedures and to describe postoperative changes detected with radiological imaging.

Pediatric musculoskeletal injuries: role of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging

Pediatric musculoskeletal system is particularly prone to traumatic and sports-related injuries, both acute and chronic, i.e., overuse injuries, because of inherent conditions of weakness, such as the open physis, representing the weakest aspect within the bone, the ligamentous supports and changing biomechanics. Being aware that a quick diagnosis is essential to preserve the good functionality of the limb involved, it is mandatory for the radiologist to recognize the most common patterns of these injuries, identifying those requiring a prompt surgery, as well as be confident with the technique performed, and be supported by an important background experience and knowledge skills.