Aggregated time intensity curves after transarterial chemoembolization with degradable starch microspheres: A feasibility study

PURPOSE: To evaluate tumor perfusion by means of dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (DCEUS) and aggregated time intensity curves (TICs) after transarterial chemoembolization with degradable starch microspheres (DSM-TACE). MATERIAL AND METHODS: 18 patients underwent 36 DCEUS examinations conducted via contrast agent application before and after DSM-TACE. Based on time intensity curves (TICs), we analyzed the microcirculation of the embolized HCC lesions with a dedicated perfusion software. RESULTS: Signal intensity was significantly reduced (p <= 0.001) after DSM-TACE at all time points measured. The mean signal intensity after 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 s was 375.18 +/- 16.41, 455.66 +/- 17.92, 294.47 +/- 19.91, 246.51 +/- 20.99 and 173.45 +/- 25.80 before TACE and 49.47 +/- 2.43, 49.51 +/- 2.40, 37.40 +/- 2.45, 27.48 +/- 2.65 and 27.96 +/- 3.01 after TACE. CONCLUSION: In this study, tumor perfusion could be accurately evaluated by means of DCEUS and aggregated TICs after DSM-TACE.