Quantitative passive elastography with portable digital ultrasonic probe

This study investigates the feasibility of using a portable digital ultrasonic probe for quantitative passive elastography. Unlike traditional methods that rely on bulky cart-based ultrasound systems with ultrafast imaging, this research utilizes a handheld ultrasound (HHUS) device to generate quantitative Shear Wave Speed (SWS) maps from standard B-mode images.In vitro experiments were conducted using a calibrated gel phantom, and in vivo tests were performed on human livers. The results were compared with those obtained through ultrafast ultrasound imaging. The HHUS successfully identified stiff inclusions in the phantom consistent with manufacturer specifications, although some discrepancies occurred in the near-field. In the human liver experiments, both HHUS and ultrafast ultrasound identified similar stiff regions; however, the SWS estimations from HHUS were generally lower.The study concludes that these findings represent a preliminary proof of concept for using HHUS in quantitative passive elastography. While further large-scale studies are necessary to improve accuracy, this advancement shows promise for making advanced diagnostic tools more accessible through HHUS. This could democratize quantitative ultrasound elastography, facilitating point-of-care solutions at the bedside, in emergency rooms, or underserved areas.