Associations of Real-Time Ultrasound and Strain and Shear Wave Elastography with Gastrointestinal Organs: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Ultrasound elastography is gaining attention for its diagnostic potential across various medical fields, and its physical properties make it valuable in modern clinical medicine. However, its specific attributes, especially in the context of recent medical advancements, remain relatively unexplored. This study aimed to identify instrument-specific characteristics and applications of real-time ultrasound elastography, shear wave elastography, and strain elastography, particularly within gastroenterology. Following PRISMA guidelines, the study examined elastography articles on databases like PubMed, resulting in 78 included articles. Data on patient demographics, organ involvement, specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were extracted. Statistical analysis involved SPSS version 21, with significance set at p < 0.05. The majority of patients were male (50.50%), with a mean age of 42.73 ± 4.41 years. Shear wave elastography was the most prevalent technique (48.7%), and liver investigations were predominant in gastroenterology (34.6%). Gastrointestinal applications showed higher sensitivity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values (p < 0.05) but lower specificity (p < 0.05). Real-time ultrasound elastography exhibited increased specificity, accuracy, and predictive values (p < 0.05). Ultrasound elastography appears more accurate and effective in gastroenterological settings. Nonetheless, its performance depends on instrument-specific and operator-dependent factors. While promising, further studies are necessary to ascertain optimal utilization in both gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal conditions.