Defect Reperfusion Imaging, a Newly Developed Novel Technology using Sonazoid in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The basic concept of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography has been confined to liver nodules, which are clearly depicted by B-mode ultrasound. However, by changing the classic concept of this method, a new breakthrough technique has been invented, using two favorable properties of Sonazoid: real-time vascular imaging and stable Kupffer phase imaging lasting up to 60 minutes. This new innovative technology called defect reperfusion imaging makes it possible to depict B-mode ill-defined nodules, locally recurring nodules, nodules found on screening/surveillance, and nodules found during staging. This is a major breakthrough technology, which will change clinical practice in hepatocellular carcinoma.