GASTROINTESTINAL AND ABDOMINAL RADIOLOGY / REVIEW PAPER
Current advancements and future directions in contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in liver oncology: from quantification to theranostics
1
Student Science Circle, Chair of Radiology, Collegium Medicum, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
2
Department of Radiology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
Submission date: 2026-03-09
Final revision date: 2026-03-10
Acceptance date: 2026-03-10
Publication date: 2026-06-15
Corresponding author
Pol J Radiol, 2026; 91(1): 280-287
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound has evolved into a precision supportive tool in managing liver oncology, particularly for hepatocellular carcinoma. It has moved beyond simple visual impressions to objective, quantitative data using dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound, perfusion curve analysis, and 3D-volumetric assessments. Furthermore, the integration of fusion imaging and artificial intelligence-driven pipelines has made ultrasound indispensable for guiding complex interventional procedures in real-time.
In parallel, emerging technologies like targeted microbubbles and ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction are pushing the field toward molecular imaging and theranostics, turning ultrasound into an active participant in therapy. This review examines these clinical applications, takes a critical look at persistent hurdles, and identifies current research directions.
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