Novel Diagnostic Technique – Elastography

Abstract

The aim of this review is to highlight this new imaging modality, its principle of action, clinical applications and advantages over conventional ultrasonography. Elastography is based on principal of physical elasticity, consists of applying a pressure on the examined medium and in estimating the induced strain distribution by tracking the tissue motion. The relationship of tissue elasticity and hardness to palpation follows the basic principle that, to be palpable the object must have change in consistency compared to the surrounding tissues. Elastography techniques have been developed for both ultrasound and MR imaging. Elasticity imaging has received considerable attention due to its intuitive source of mechanical contrast and the significant diagnostic potential.