Comparison of Ultrasound Attenuation Imaging Using a Linear versus a Conventional Convex Probe: A Volunteer Study

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the feasibility of attenuation imaging (ATI) measurements using a linear probe on healthy volunteers and compare measurements with the conventional convex probe. Attenuation imaging measurements of the liver tissue were taken using ultrasound with a convex and a linear probe in 33 volunteers by two examining doctors, and the measurements were repeated 4–5 weeks later by one of them. The ATI values for the linear probe were in the range of the values for the convex probe for both examiners. Measurements did not change significantly for 32 out of 33 volunteers after 4–5 weeks when using the linear probe. The size of the region of interest (ROI) only impacted the ATI values for the convex probe; it did not affect the values taken with the linear probe. Healthy volunteers were measured, and their attenuation values were compared to those from a convex probe, commonly used in steatosis evaluation. When both probes were positioned in the same liver area, they showed good agreement in attenuation values, though depth significantly affected the measurements, with both probes providing different values at different depths. The study’s results aligned with previous research using the same system. Operator A and B’s results were compared, demonstrating similar ranges of values for both probes. The linear probe has been demonstrated to allow for superficial measurements and attain ATI values in line with that of the convex probe in the liver.