title: The feasibility of contrast-enhanced ultrasound during uterine artery embolization: a pilot study.
abstract: 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.
authors: Department of Radiology, Rikshospitalet-Radiumhospitalet Medical Center, Oslo, Norway. eric.dorenberg@rikshospitalet.no
authors: Eric J
authors: EJ
authors: Dorenberg
authors: Jarl A
authors: JA
authors: Jakobsen
authors: Knut
authors: K
authors: Brabrand
authors: Geir
authors: G
authors: Hafsahl
authors: Hans-Jørgen
authors: HJ
authors: Smith
mesh_terms: 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*