Ultraschall Med 2013; 34 - WS_SL11_05
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1354871

The importance of semi-quantitative diastolic sonoelastographic evaluation in the management of solid and semi-solid thyroid nodules

H Yerli 1, T Yilmaz 2, B Ural 2, E Aydin 1, AM Agildere 1
  • 1Baskent University Zubeyde Hanim, Practice and Research Center, Department of Radiology, Izmir, Turkey
  • 2Baskent University Zubeyde Hanim, Practice and Research Center, Department of General Surgery, Izmir, Turkey

Purpose: Our aim was to determine whether the application of strain index method using manual compression synchronized with diastolic period of carotid artery by sonoelastography was useful in the management of thyroid nodules.

Material and methods: 176 lesions in 155 consecutive patients with solid or semi-solid thyroid nodules (163 benign, 13 malignant) were prospectively included in this study. For each lesion, B-mode sonography and sonoelastography images were obtained. Strain indexes of the nodules were calculated using the same-level and normal-appearing thyroid region as an internal reference by means of the method of strain ratio measurement. The findings were compared with histopathology or fine-needle aspiration biopsy and follow-up. The diagnostic performances for B-mode sonography and the strain index methods were determined.

Results: The mean strain index values were 1.53 ± 2.55 for benign nodules and 4.95 ± 3.95 for malignant nodules. Sensitivity and specificity for B-mode sonography were 83% and 75%, respectively; and 82% and 90% for strain index method when a cutoff point of 3.40 was used

Conclusion: Strain index method using external manual compression method synchronized with diastolic period of carotid artery by sonoelastography can be useful in the management of thyroid nodules.