Ultrasound Based Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Imaging

Ultrasound Based Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse, Shear Wave Velocity Imaging in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Liver Biopsy

ARFI (Ultrasound-based Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse) will be used during ultrasound guided needle biopsy of the liver of children.

A new technique based on ultrasound, known as Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) imaging is performed using standard approved ultrasound machines and transducers. The sound waves or impulses are generated in a different pattern and offer information on the stiffness of the tissue. This new technique will be evaluated for usefulness in diagnosing different liver conditions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years of age or younger

• Scheduled to have a needle biopsy of the liver at

  1. C.S. Mott Children's Hospital or
  2. Dept. of Radiology at the Univ. of Michigan Hospital

• Scheduled to have an abdominal ultrasound to evaluate your liver (with no known liver disease)

Exclusion Criteria:

• None to list