A proposal of novel treatment-assist technique for hepatocellular carcinoma in the Sonazoid-enhanced ultrasonography: value of defect re-perfusion imaging

We have innovated new imaging technique, Defect Re-perfusion Imaging, in the Sonazoid-enhanced contrast ultrasonography (US) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is not clearly demonstrated on B mode US. Firstly, perfusion defect can be detected on post-vascular phase imaging 10 min after intravenous injection of Sonazoid. Second, re-injection of Sonazoid clearly shows arterial hypervascularity within the defect portion if the nodule is typical HCC. Since this technique is extremely useful in the detection, treatment guidance and evaluation of treatment response for ultrasound ill-defined HCC nodules, we propose this technique should be widely used in the clinical practice of HCC.