Diaphragmatic discontinuity associated with perihepatic ascites: A sonographic refractive artifact

W. D. Middleton, G. L. Melson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

Apparent discontinuity in the diaphragm frequently is seen in sonograms of the right upper quadrant in patients with perihepatic ascites. Using a fresh cadaveric liver and a linear reflector to simulate the diaphragm, we performed in vitro analysis and confirmed that the appearance of the diaphragm was artifactual; this was due to refraction of the sound beam at the interface between the liver and ascites. Knowledge of the typical sonographic appearance and location of this artifact should prevent diagnostic errors.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)709-711
Number of pages3
JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology
Volume151
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1988

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