Hepatic Vein Morphology A New Sonographic Diagnostic Parameter in the Investigation of Cirrhosis?

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of a new sonographic marker for the diagnosis of cirrhosis using hepatic vein wall changes. METHODS: A prospective pilot study evaluating 88 patients, 38 with cirrhosis and 50 with no evidence of liver disease, was undertaken. Hard copy sonograms of the hepatic veins were obtained and reviewed in a blinded fashion by 2 radiologists. The hepatic vein morphology was assessed by 3 parameters: hepatic vein wall straightness, uniformity of hepatic vein wall echogenicity, and visualization of a complete 1-cm hepatic vein segment. The 3 parameters were compared to evaluate sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of cirrhosis. I..