elastográfia

Elastography is a medical imaging technique that measures the stiffness or elasticity of tissue. It uses ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to produce images that represent the mechanical properties of tissues. During elastography, the patient is typically exposed to a small amount of pressure or stress, which causes the tissue to deform. The deformation is then measured and used to calculate the tissue's elasticity.

There are two main types of elastography: static and dynamic. Static elastography involves applying a constant stress to the tissue, while dynamic elastography uses a cyclic or oscillating stress. The use of cyclic stress allows for the calculation of the tissue's elastic modulus.

Elastography is primarily used in the diagnosis of breast cancer. It has been shown to have a higher sensitivity and specificity than traditional methods, such as mammography. Breast elastography involves measuring the elasticity of the breast tissue, usually in the regions of a mass or anomaly. Generally, benign lesions have a higher elasticity than malignant ones.

Elastography has also been used in the examination of liver disease, glioma, and soft tissue tumors. In each of these cases, the procedure can help identify the type of disease or guide biopsy procedures.

The advantages of elastography include its non-invasive nature, low cost, and real-time imaging. Additionally, elastography can be performed using ultrasound or MRI equipment already present in many medical facilities. However, the technique is still evolving and research is being conducted on its application and limitations.