The feasibility of contrast-enhanced ultrasound during uterine artery embolization: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the feasibility of using contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) during uterine artery embolization (UAE) in order to define the correct end-point of embolization with complete devascularization of all fibroids.


METHODS
In this prospective study of 10 consecutive women undergoing UAE, CEUS was performed in the angiographic suite during embolization. When the angiographic end-point, defined as the "pruned-tree" appearance of the uterine arteries was reached, CEUS was performed while the angiographic catheters to both uterine arteries were kept in place. The decision whether or not to continue the embolization was based on the findings at CEUS. The results of CEUS were compared with those of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 1 day as well as 3 months following UAE.


RESULTS
CEUS was successfully performed in all women. In 4 cases injection of particles was continued based on the findings at CEUS despite angiographically complete embolization. CEUS imaging at completion of UAE correlated well with the findings at MRI.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of CEUS during UAE is feasible and may increase the quality of UAE.
Dorenberg
Eric J
EJ
Department of Radiology, Rikshospitalet-Radiumhospitalet Medical Center, Oslo, Norway. eric.dorenberg@rikshospitalet.no
Jakobsen
Jarl A
JA
Brabrand
Knut
K
Hafsahl
Geir
G
Smith
Hans-Jørgen
HJ
D000328:Adult; D001158:Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D018231:Leiomyomatosis / Q000098:blood supply / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D018084:Ultrasonography, Interventional; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000098:blood supply / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*