Comparison of the Novel Simultaneous Biplane versus In-plane Imaging Technique in Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy: A Prospective Randomized Multi-Operator Cross-Over Phantom Study

Leitung: Prim. –Priv. –Doz.Dr. Georg-Christian Funk
Vertretung: Dr. Baki Akca
Studienkoordination: Almas Merchant, M.P.H.
Start: 2022
Projektmitglieder an der Klinik Ottakring: Dr. Baki Akca, Dr. Florian Vafai-Tabrizi

Projektinformation/Beschreibung/Zielsetzung:

Background:

Ultrasound-guided biopsies are safe and effective for diagnosing thoracic pathologies. The gold standard technique involves continuous visualization of the needle (in-plane technique). A novel technique, using the handheld Butterfly iQ+ device with biplane visualization, allows simultaneous in-plane and out-of-plane visualization, potentially improving biopsies. We conducted a study to compare the biplane technique to the in-plane technique using simulated ultrasound-guided biopsies on gel phantoms.

Methods:

We recruited 30 participants (20 male, average age 30±7 years), mostly physicians in training, with varying experience levels. They performed biopsies on gel phantoms using both techniques, with the order randomized. Participants watched a tutorial video before the procedure. We analyzed various parameters and collected post-intervention questionnaires for personal preferences and experiences.

Results:

Most participants had limited experience and confidence in ultrasound-guided biopsies. Around two-thirds of participants succeeded in one biopsy attempt regardless of the technique used. The time for the first successful biopsy was significantly longer with the biplane technique (120 seconds, 95% CI [87, 153]) compared to the in-plane technique (72 seconds, 95% CI [51, 93]) with a p-value of 0.013. Linear regression analysis showed no significant learning effect, but it confirmed that using the in-plane technique and having higher confidence led to faster biopsy success.

Conclusion:

The novel biplane mode resulted in a longer time to achieve the first successful biopsy among novice practitioners of ultrasound-guided biopsy. As a result, the in-plane mode remains the preferred and established standard for this technique.