Work

Ultrasound shear wave elastography for the assessment of pelvic floor muscle stiffness: technical and analytical challenges in practice

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Shear wave elastography (SWE) is an established technique for evaluating thyroid, liver, and breast pathologies. This non-invasive, real-time diagnostic method has also shown value for assessing the mechanical properties of skeletal muscle. However, the specific challenges of pelvic floor evaluation remain insufficiently addressed. Although SWE may appear straightforward, it involves considerable technical and analytical complexity and carries a substantial risk of misinterpretation. This review aims to increase awareness of challenges in SWE image acquisition and analysis, potential pitfalls, common artifacts, and other technical considerations relevant to pelvic floor muscle assessment. By addressing these issues, this review is intended to promote quality and consistency in future SWE research and to highlight areas requiring further investigation.

Source: ULTRASONOGRAPHY

DOI: 10.14366/usg.26031

Authors: Małgorzata Starzec-Proserpio, Guy Cloutier, Nathaly Gaudreault, Nathalie Bureau, Mélanie Morin

Institutions: Université de Sherbrooke, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Université de Montréal, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal

Language: English

Topic: Ultrasound Imaging and Elastography

Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Canadian Institutes of Health Research