A novel method to determine hepatic segments using Sonazoid, an ultrasound contrast agent

ABSTRACT

The conventional radiologic method for liver segmentation is based on the position of the hepatic and portal veins. However, during surgery, liver segments are resected based on the distribution of hepatic portal blood flow. This discrepancy can lead to a number of problems, such as miscommunication among clinicians, missing the location of the segment with the hepatic mass, and the risk of extended hepatic resection. We suggest a novel method to determine hepatic segments based on portal blood flow, as in the surgical approach, but by using high and low mechanical indexes in contrast-enhanced ultrasonography with Sonazoid. This approach is helpful for preoperatively determining hepatic segments and reducing the risk of missing the location of a hepatic tumor or extended hepatic resection.